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Hey, friends! We’re back with another DFB Video and today we’re talkin’ about the most surprising things in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. You may think Florida rain might mess up your trip… but it’s not so bad! From a pet cemetery to the longest-running stage show in America, there are a ton of unique things around the Magic Kingdom. We’re talking rainy day shows, Magic Kingdom tunnels, and so much more in our latest DFB Video. So, check it out to get a TON of need-to-know Magic Kingdom facts! And if you love this video, there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel! By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode! So check out the video and then let us know: Which fact surprised you the most? Related posts: DFB Video: Best Attractions with Low-to-No Wait in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom DFB Video: Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2018 DFB Video: Which Disney World Dessert Party Should YOU Do? View the full article

You’ve started to sense the excitement surrounding Walt Disney World’s newest resort – Disney’s Riviera Resort which is currently under construction and is opening for guests to enjoy beginning Dec. 16, 2019. Now is your chance to get a sneak peek at the crafting of Disney’s Riviera Resort in a new special. The Art of Inspiration is an exclusive first look into the creation of the newest Disney Vacation Club Resort. You can view this online, on-demand show now through Oct. 8, at ArtofRiviera.com. Plus, after you watch the special, you can enter for a chance to win a Disney vacation with a five-night stay at Disney’s Riviera Resort. And keep an eye out for a special offer on Disney Vacation Club membership, exclusively for viewers of The Art of Inspiration. As we know, Walt Disney was always interested in fellow artists – where they studied, who their influences were and how they brought their creations to life. In The Art of Inspiration, this great tradition of artistic inspiration and storytelling is revealed as you hear from Imagineers and artisans who helped develop the resort. They will share their influences including their love of Disney and European artistry, and just how they are making Disney’s Riviera Resort into a place that both inspires and feels like home. In the special, you’ll also get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the making of the Disney Skyliner. Coming fall 2019, Skyliner will connect Disney’s Riviera Resort to Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and other Walt Disney World Resorts. Want to learn more and get first look at the making of Disney’s Riviera Resort? Then watch The Art of Inspiration and enter the sweepstakes before Oct. 8. This promotional material is a timeshare solicitation and is not an offer in any jurisdiction where the timeshare is not registered. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Sweepstakes begins 12:00:00 PM ET 8/7/19 & ends 11:59:59 PM ET 10/8/19. Open to 50 US/DC, 18 years old or the age of majority in jurisdiction of residence. Disney Vacation Club Member entrants must be a Member prior to 8/7/19. One entry per person/household. Void where prohibited. See Official Rules at https://artofriviera.com/enter/en-us/rules for entry instructions, odds, prize descriptions & restrictions. Sponsor: Disney Vacation Development, Inc., 1390 Celebration Blvd. Celebration, FL 34747, U.S.A. View the full article

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opens in Hollywood Studios on August 29th (!!!) and it seems that Disney World is gearing up for the opening! Oga’s Cantina in Disney World Yesterday, we told you that advance reservations for Oga’s Cantina, Savi’s, and Droid Depot are available to book, and now we have even MORE news to share. Additional menu details have been released for Oga’s Cantina! Jedi Mind Trick We told you about Oga’s morning menu a few weeks ago, but now we have lunch and dinner menus! There are separate lunch and dinner menus listed on Disney World’s website, but they are identical. Concoctions with Alcohol Oga’s Cantina Menu Disney World and Disneyland’s menus both feature the same lineup of alcoholic concoctions, but a few of them (like the Bespin Fizz and Fuzzy Tauntaun) are listed at higher price points on Disney World’s menu. Fuzzy Tauntaun Concoctions and Provisions Rodian Ration is a new alcoholic provision and it’s only listed on Disney World’s menu currently. Oga’s Cantina Menu At the moment, the Rancor Beer Flight Souvenir Board is not listed on Disney World’s menu, but we expect it to pop up on the menu soon. Rancor Beer Flight in Center Provisions, Beers, and Ciders Oga’s Cantina Menu Oga’s Obsession in Disneyland Wine and Snacks Oga’s Cantina Menu Aside from the addition of a few items and some price changes, Oga’s menu in Disney World isn’t too different from Disneyland’s. Don’t forget that 180-day Advance Dining Reservations are available to book online! Read our first look at Oga’s Cantina in Disney World here! Will you visit Oga’s Cantina on opening day? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: What’s NEW?! Our First Look At Oga’s Cantina in Disney World’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge! Disney World’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Map Is Now Available on My Disney Experience! “WHY IS MY MOUTH NUMB?!” What You Need to Know About Oga’s Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge! View the full article

As a child, “Oliver and Company” was one of my favorite films. I was 9 years old when the film was released, and at the time was obsessed with kittens – and better yet, the kittens’ owner was named Jenny! Today, artist Ashley Taylor shares her interpretation of what Jenny would do if she had the chance to visit the Walt Disney World Resort. “Jenny loves playing the piano with Oliver by her side,” Ashley said. “It’s easy to imagine them taking advantage of the piano inside the Grand Floridian!” View the full article

In fall 2019 and 2020, you can experience the vacation of a lifetime when you cruise with us from New York! Whether you’re itching to explore the big city before or after your voyage, longing for a relaxing day at the beach or looking for a fun-filled family adventure, we have something for everyone on Disney Magic cruises from the Big Apple. Here are just a few of the reasons why you’ll have the best vacation ever when sailing from New York City in the fall… 1. Your family can celebrate the season with Halloween fun. On cruises from New York in September and October, your family can experience a frightfully fun sailing aboard the Disney Magic. From Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party to Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing and Scream to even the adults-only costume party, everyone in the family is sure to have a spooktacular time during our Halloween on the High Seas voyages! 2. You’ll fall in love with the blissful beaches of Bermuda. Pink sand beaches, stunning coral reefs, historic sites and world-class golf await you in the tropical island of Bermuda. Only during select sailings from New York City, you can experience all the beautiful island has to offer with an overnight visit to this slice of paradise. 3. You can revel in the beauty of New York City before or after your sailing. In the city that never sleeps, there is no shortage of exciting activities for the family! Before or after your cruise, you can stroll through Central Park, shop at the flagship Disney Store in Times Square or visit some of the exhibits in the many museums across the city. Want to add even more Disney magic? You have the opportunity to book pre- or post-cruise excursions to experience Disney on Broadway! Watch as the stories from Disney’s “Aladdin”, “The Lion King” or “Frozen” come to life in way like never before on some of the world’s greatest stages. Exclusive to sailings from New York, you can even go behind the magic at the New Amsterdam Theatre to see how incredible performances like these are created! So, what’re you waiting for? Click here to check out all our sailings from New York City! View the full article

When the Disney Skyliner Gondola System becomes operational for the public on September 29, 2019 (see the announcement here!), it begins a new phase of transportation (and views!) in Walt Disney World. We’ve learned a lot about the Skyliner since the system’s announcement in 2017 (like how it’s designed to keep riders cool!); but now that all the pieces are essentially in place, guests have a TON of questions before they take their first flights on the new transportation system. Art of Animation Skyliner We’ve got the pro tips you need to make the most of your rides on the Disney World Skyliner! Disney Skyliner Stations There are five Skyliner stations. These are located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Epcot’s International Gateway, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation/Pop Century Resorts, and Disney’s Riviera Resort. Riviera Resort Skyliner Station These stations are themed for their locations, with styling that matches that of each location. The Skyliner Station at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, for example, uses shades of turquoise that match the Park’s entrance. Skyliner Gondolas at Hollywood Studios At least two of the stations have restrooms nearby for convenience. This station restroom is located on the Art of Animation end of the Generation Gap Bridge for the Pop Century/Art of Animation station. Skyliner Station Bathroom at Art of Animation/Pop Century And Disney’s Hollywood Studios built a new restroom at the Park’s entrance that is convenient to the Skyliner station as well. Hollywood Studios Entrance Restrooms In addition to the five stations where guests will board the gondolas, there’s a turn station located near BoardWalk Inn & Villas. Riders will not leave the Skyliner cabins here; this is just a station for the line to change direction between Epcot and Riviera Resort. Turn Station near BoardWalk Inn Disney Skyliner Map A simple map of the Skyliner System shows the general locations of the stations and lines with relation to one another. Skyliner Map And recently the Skyliner stations and lines were added to the My Disney Experience app maps and DisneyWorld.com maps. So if you’re zooming in on those, you’ll get to start making out details and getting a sense of where things are. Skyliner System at Epcot’s World Showcase Disney Skyliner Station Transfers But one of the most persistent remaining questions readers have is where they’ll need to make transfers on the Skyliner. Having to transfer from one line to another could impact travel time for those using Skyliner, and often at Disney World, time is money. So we’re going to talk about each station individually to clarify where it’s going directly and when you might need to transfer. Art of Animation and Pop Century Resorts Skyliner Station This station is the end of the line and, as such, is simply for boarding or disembarking. Note that Disney has said the stations at the end of the lines will not function like the Monorail insomuch as riders can not opt to remain in their cabins. They will be asked to disembark, and they’ll need to get in line to re-board if they want to continue their rides in the opposite direction. The skyliner isn’t a round-trip situation. We’ll watch to see how and if this policy is enforced when the Skyliner opens. Skyliner Station on Generation Gap Bridge Riders boarding at this station can stay on through the Caribbean Beach Resort Skyliner station if they are en route to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Riders who wish to continue on Skyliner to Epcot will need to disembark at Caribbean Beach Resort station, board the Epcot line, and stay on through the turn at Riviera Resort to continue on to Epcot. Caribbean Beach Resort Skyliner Station This station is sort of a hub of the Skyliner system. Here, lines to both Hollywood Studios and Epcot (via Riviera Resort) are available, as well as a line to Art of Animation and Pop Century. Riders boarding at Caribbean Beach Resort station will choose their line and be taken directly to their destination without requiring transfers. The Hollywood Studios line will go directly to Hollywood Studios. The Epcot Line will travel to Riviera Resort, where riders can remain in their cabins and continue on to Epcot. (If riders need to disembark at Riviera, they can do that, too.) Hollywood Studios Skyliner Station The Hollywood Studios station is the end of a line, so riders who arrive at this station will be required to disembark. Riders who board here will be taken to Caribbean Beach Resort Station, where they can remain in their cabins to go to Art of Animation/Pop Century or transfer to the Riviera/Epcot line. Disney Skyliner Station Sign at Hollywood Studios Riviera Resort Skyliner Station The Riviera Resort station is on the Epcot line, so riders who board the Epcot line here will be taken directly to the Park, where they will be required to disembark. Riviera Resort Station Riders at Riviera Resort Skyliner station who are heading to Disney’s Hollywood Studios will glide to the Caribbean Beach Resort station, where they will need to transfer to the Hollywood Studios line. Technically this also means that guests who board at Riviera Resort could also transfer to the line toward Art of Animation and Pop Century, too (you know, for Tie-Dye Cheesecake cravings). Epcot Skyliner Station Epcot’s International Gateway station is the end of the line, so riders will be asked to disembark here. Riders who board here at Epcot’s line can head to Riviera Resort and beyond to the Caribbean Beach Resort Skyliner station. Epcot Skyliner Station To get to Hollywood Studios, riders who board at Epcot will need to remain on the Skyliner through Riviera Resort and transfer to the Hollywood Studios line at Caribbean Beach Resort. At Caribbean Beach Resort Station, riders could also transfer to the Art of Animation/Pop line. Remember, too, that the Epcot-area Resorts are all within walking distance of International Gateway and Hollywood Studios, making these stations possible go-tos for travel from Yacht Club, Beach Club, BoardWalk, Swan, and Dolphin. (It would be easier to walk or boat to Hollywood Studios and Epcot from these Resorts, but if you’re Resort hopping (say, for rooftop dining at Riviera), Skyliner might be helpful!) Travel Times on Disney’s Skyliner Disney has reported that the Skyliner system can operate as fast as 11MPH and that travel times vary from 5 to 15 minutes depending on where you’re going. No word if this travel time includes transfers, but it likely doesn’t include time waiting in line to board or moments when the lines might slow or stop to allow folks to board. We’ll have to give the Skyliner some carefully observant rides when it begins operation to see how these times hold up in real life. Skyliner Gondolas Disney Skyliner Weather Concerns One variable sure to impact Skyliner operations is the weather in central Florida. In addition to the warm climate, daily (hourly, by-the-minute, etc.) weather will likely result in the Skyliner stopping operations when conditions like heavy winds and lightning exist. During the testing phase, we have seen gondolas stopped during periods of heavy rain, lightning, and wind, and although we can’t be certain the stoppages were solely due to weather, it seems likely that specific conditions will result in the gondolas ceasing operations at times. Skyliner Gondolas Disney has long had systems in place to track and predict weather patterns that may affect their outdoor attractions, so it’s unlikely guests will be in a gondola when weather strikes. Instead, the hassles will be more along the line of the system being closed down due to potential weather, meaning guests will have to scramble to find other transportation plans. To be sure, the system has been tested for its reliability under typical weather conditions, but for those already nervous about the Skyliner, weather may be a factor in saying “no, thanks” to the airborne transport system. Disney Skyliner Safety Concerns Any transportation system has inherent risks (yup, even those adorable Disney buses!), and gondola systems are safer by the numbers than vehicular travel on the roads. Still, there’s something about dangling from a steel cable 60 feet up that gets the heart pumping (and the imagination spinning). France Pavilion and Skyliner Of particular interest for readers and followers is the Art of Animation and Pop Century station which sends Skyliner gondolas sailing over Hourglass Lake. For that, Disney has a rescue barge parked and ready to motor riders to safety should these cabins ever need to be evacuated. Skyliner Rescue Barge There are some potential safety concerns that, while statistically very unlikely, are part and parcel of a system like this. Gondolas around the world have, at times, jumped the cable, suffered cracks in their towers, and had cables come off of their wheels. Presumably, Disney has taken the strictest measures possible to ensure safety, and for most guests, the relative safety of the Skyliner gondola system will put their minds at ease. But for others, the idea of flying over land and lake on a steel cable will never feel right. Disney Skyliner Capacity Skyliner gondola cabins are designed to accommodate ten passengers seated on the fixed wooden benches inside the cabin. Disney’s Skyliner Seating However, Skyliner can also accommodate wheelchairs, ECVs, and strollers. When these are in place in the gondola, it appears the capacity lowers to six passengers. (Click here to see more about this!) Disney Skyliner Safety Signs at Hollywood Studios Disney Skyliner Comfort Concerns One of the biggest concerns we hear from DFB readers and followers is how the non-air conditioned gondolas will prevent guests from overheating in the tropical climate of central Florida. According to Disney, the gondolas are fitted with cross-ventilation and feature reflective windows in an attempt to keep the heat at bay. Disney’s Skyliner with vented, reflecting windows But one big question remains: what happens when the gondola isn’t moving, as may be the case when the line slows or stops to allow passengers to board who need more time? Will riders be dangling from the Skyliner with no way for air flow to pass through the cabin, thus diminishing that singular cooling system? Cross-ventilation in Disney’s Skyliner At this point we do not know the answer to this question, but we’re looking forward to finding out how effective the cross-ventilation system is in all conditions, including absolute stillness. Overall Skyliner Thoughts Skyliner is a controversial transportation system. Some guests say “hard pass” while others say “I believe I can fly!” Still others reside in the continuum between with questions about how long the waits will realistically be, what type of climate the gondolas will actually maintain, and whether they are completely safe. Here at DFB, we’ve got team members on all points on the spectrum, which can mean only one thing: we’ll be bringing you all the details as they unfold so you can make the best decisions for yourself. Are you team Skyliner or team no way? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: Disney World Skyliner System Construction Update: Signs, Gondola Testing, and More! 4 BIG Disney World Transportation Transformations (And What They Mean For YOU)! Disney World’s Skyliner Gondola System is Now Visible on the My Disney Experience App! View the full article

Are you lookin’ to go to Disneyland in 2020? Sleeping Beauty Castle Then, do we have some news for you! As of TODAY, guests can book a Disneyland 2020 vacation package! We seriously cannot believe that we have almost made it to 2020, but we have. And you know what that means…it’s time to start planning next year’s vacations! 2020 Packages Up until today, reservations for the three Disneyland hotels were only available through the end of 2019. But, now guests can make their reservations through the END of 2020. Disneyland Hotel Package Options Guests can choose from the Disneyland Hotel, Grand Californian, Paradise Pier, and the Good Neighbor hotels in the surrounding Anaheim area. Disneyland Hotel What’s Coming in 2020 2020 is an exciting time to visit Disneyland Resort because a few new attractions will be making their Disney debuts. Oh yeah, we’re talking Rise of the Resistance, which will open in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge on January 17th. INSIDE Star Wars Rise of the Resistance! Marvel Land is also set to open in the summer of 2020. Based on a few new permits, we can expect a character meet-and-greet area, a retail outlet, and even a microbrewery. You can read more about this new land here! Concept Art for Marvel Land coming to Disney California Adventure ©Disney One thing to note is that Disneyland’s Travel Protection Plan has increased by $5 per adult, while child and infant prices have increased by 50 cents. The 2020 Travel Protection Plan will cost $75.50 per adult, and $5.50 per junior, child, and infant (ages 17 and younger). Looking to make a reservation? Then, be sure to reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! They’ll be able to help you with all your Disneyland vacation planning needs. Are you planning to visit the Disneyland Resort next year? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Save Big on Hotels With This NEW Disneyland Discount! News: Special Menus for New Year’s Eve in Disneyland 2019 Disney Restaurant ULTIMATE GUIDE: What You Need To Know About EVERY Restaurant Opening In Disney World and Disneyland in 2019! View the full article

For 54 years, at dawn’s first light, Disney cast members, Imagineers and employees have gathered at the Rivers of America in Disneyland park to compete for the championship in the time-honored and summertime tradition of the canoe races. It’s serious business. Starting with 86 teams at the beginning of the race season, teams have been practicing and competing in time trials to get down to the final 24 teams rowing in sprint finals, and timed team finals Aug. 6 and 7. Sprints winners, You’re Welcome, comprised mostly of cast members who worked on the rerouting of the river from two years ago, preparing for the expansion of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Team Captain Kateri Ninh, former Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes cast member and current Program Development project manager, said, “It’s a great team-building activity and a unique opportunity to meet people from all across the company. Where else can you do this?” The Oarlords, winner of the team timed finals in the Endor division and overall finals champions, agreed. “It’s the highlight of my summer,” said Team Captain Ricky Corriero. “Nowhere [else] does this. To say that you can do this and it’s been going on for more than 50 years, that’s really cool!” As part of the final festivities, Disneyland Resort made a $2,500 donation to Anaheim Beautiful, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and enhancing the beauty of Anaheim. Take a look at the video covering all the finals glory: View the full article

August 29th is just around the corner! Which means so is the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Can you believe it? Fantasmic! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios In preparation for the opening, Disney has opened advance reservations for Oga’s Cantina, Savi’s Workshop, and Droid Depot. Another thing that Disney is doing to prepare (and to possibly help with crowd control) is offering two daily showings of Fantasmic! Fantasmic! is a nighttime show filled with characters and fireworks at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Typically, there is only one Fantasmic! show each night. But, from August 29th – September 2nd, guests will be able to watch Fantasmic! at 8:30 PM and at 10 PM. Fantasmic Viewing Times This means that we can expect Hollywood Studios to be opened a bit later than usual! We are all about more Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge time! Disney will also be offering Extra Extra Magic Hours for resort guests, giving them more time to enjoy the parks without the potentially massive amount of Star Wars crowds. Are you planning on visiting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Hollywood Studios? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Disney World’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Map Is Now Available on My Disney Experience! Disney World’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Annual Passholder Previews Have Reached Capacity Advance Reservations Now Available for Oga’s Cantina, Savi’s Workshop, and Droid Depot in Disney World’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge! View the full article

Welcome to another roundup of What’s New in Magic Kingdom! Cinderella Castle It was a stormy day in the Kingdom, but we still explored the park for all the food, construction, and merchandise updates we could find! Let’s get started! Magic Kingdom Food Update Main Street, U.S.A. On Main Street U.S.A., Plaza Ice Cream Parlor was featuring its August Sundae of the Month — the Monster Brownie Sundae. Monster Brownie Sundae Stacked between layers of brownie, a cookie dough ice cream sandwich is topped with whipped cream, caramel, hot fudge, mini M&M’s, and a cherry, and is served in a waffle bowl. Monster Brownie Sundae Check out our full review of the Monster Brownie Sundae here! Tomorrowland We recently reported that Super Lemonade was back on the menu at Cool Ship, but it has since been removed from the menu once again. We’re not sure when we can expect the beverage to return since a Cast Member told us they’ve been having difficulties with the machine. Cool Ship (Featuring a whole lot of rain!) Multiple Locations Toy Story treats are still available at The Confectionery and Big Top Treats, so if you have your heart set on one of those adorable Alien caramel apples, you may get to try one! The Confectionery Bakery Case Big Top Treats Bakery Case Magic Kingdom Construction Update Entrance Around Magic Kingdom’s entrance, we noticed some new signage along the construction wall and some line ropes to help out when exiting crowds get large. Magic Kingdom Entrance Construction From the Monorail, we spotted a trash pile of the Leave a Legacy bricks. Magic Kingdom Entrance Construction We noticed some additional construction near the pathway to the Contemporary, which is located between the main entrance and Tomorrowland. Magic Kingdom Pathway Construction Tomorrowland While we were in Tomorrowland, we couldn’t resist snapping a photo of the TRON coaster‘s construction progress! The new roller coaster will open in time for Disney World’s 50th-anniversary celebrations in 2021. We can’t contain our anticipation for this attraction! Tron Coaster Construction Liberty Square The construction wall near Liberty Square Market looks the same as it did last week. The Market is still open, but the seating area has been blocked off. Stay tuned for more updates on this construction project! Liberty Square Market Construction Fantasyland Construction on the Cinderella Castle walkway continues to progress. It looks like they’ve added some more brick since our last visit, so we hope it won’t be too terribly long until the walkway reopens! Cinderella Castle Walkway Construction Cinderella Castle Walkway Construction Magic Kingdom Merchandise Update Main Street, U.S.A. In Uptown Jewelers, we spotted the new Beauty and the Beast Dooney & Bourke collection! We first found the collection in Ever After at Disney Springs, and it honestly might be our favorite collection yet. Beauty and the Beast Dooney & Bourke Collection Learn more about the Beauty and the Beast collection here! Also in Uptown Jewelers, we found the Minnie Floral Dress we originally spotted in Disney Springs. We think this dress is absolutely adorable! Minnie Floral Dress Read all about the Minnie Floral Dress here! In The Emporium, we found a new Haunted Mansion Wallpaper Magic Band ($24.99)! We’ve previously seen other versions of this band with purple and gray backgrounds. Haunted Mansion Wallpaper MagicBand Haunted Mansion Wallpaper MagicBand Tomorrowland Over in Tomorrowland, we spotted this super cute Jasmine Bracelet ($19.99) at Mickey’s Star Traders. Jasmine Charm Bracelet The bracelet would go perfectly with this Genie Lamp Bracelet ($19.99), which we also found in Mickey’s Star Traders. Genie Lamp Necklace Liberty Square In Liberty Square, we found a TON of new Haunted Mansion merchandise in Memento Mori! Before we dive into alll the merch we found, we want to tell you that they are not currently offering the Ghost Portraits. We’ll let you know when we find out if they’ll come back or will be replaced with something else. Now, on to the merchandise! First, we found a black t-shirt ($24.99) featuring a trio of hitchhiking ghosts. The Haunted Mansion T-Shirt The Haunted Mansion T-Shirt We also found a long-sleeve shirt ($34.99) that glows in the dark! “Going Our Way?” Shirt As this blue shirt ($34.99) declares, there’s still “room for one more” in The Haunted Mansion! The Haunted Mansion Shirt The Haunted Mansion Shirt In addition to a clock and a few hitchiking ghosts, this shirt also features some of Madame Leota’s iconic speech from the attraction! The Haunted Mansion Shirt A variety of icons from The Haunted Mansion decorate this patterned shirt ($34.99). The Haunted Mansion Patterned Shirt This red shirt ($34.99) has a vintage look to coordinate with the antique appearance of the attraction! The Haunted Mansion Shirt These red sweatpants ($39.99) looked so comfortable, we almost bought them for ourselves! The Haunted Mansion Sweatpants We just love The Haunted Mansion logo — don’t you?? The Haunted Mansion Sweatpants We couldn’t get enough of this figurine set ($44.99) when we saw it! The set features none other than the iconic Phantom Five. The Haunted Mansion Figurine Set Constance Hatchaway is front and center on this “Don’t Make Me Axe You Twice” sweatshirt ($49.99). You’ll just have to steer clear of her ax! “Don’t Make Me Axe You Twice” Shirt If you want a more subdued (but still spooky) look, this gray shirt ($44.99) we found might be for you! The Haunted Mansion Gray Shirt If you want to add a frightful accessory to your front door, then look no further than the Haunted Mansion Door Knocker ($24.99)! Those spikes add an extra creepy touch, don’t they? The Haunted Mansion Door Knocker We are OBSESSED with this “Not a Mourning Person” mug ($19.99) we found! This one comes with a purple shovel as the comical final touch. “Not a Mourning Person” Mug “Not a Mourning Person” Mug We also spotted a heat-sensitive Haunted Mansion mug ($24.99)! When you pour hot liquid into the mug, you’ll be greeted with the face of Hatbox Ghost himself! Color-Changing Mug Color-Changing Mug Color-Changing Mug If you looking for a shirt to match the figurine set we mentioned earlier, you might want to grab this Graveyard Jamboree shirt ($19.99)! It features the Phantom Five as well. Graveyard Jamboree Shirt This Frights shirt ($34.99) we spotted won’t let you forget that 999 happy haunts dwell in The Haunted Mansion! 999 Frights Shirt We also found a purple wallpaper shirt ($34.99), which matches the wallpaper MagicBands! Wallpaper Shirt We love the added touch of the candlestick on the pocket. Wallpaper Shirt If you’re in the market for a new hoodie, we spotted this black jacket ($54.99) with the Haunted Mansion logo! The Haunted Mansion Jacket The Haunted Mansion Jacket The Haunted Mansion Jacket This hat ($27.99) that says “Welcome Foolish Mortals” easily caught our eye with its vivid turquoise hue! “Welcome Foolish Mortals” Hat We love any excuse to buy a new cup, which is why we were excited to spot this black and red tumbler ($22.99)! Black and Red Tumbler Don’t miss the hitchhiking ghosts on the other side! Black and Red Tumbler Lastly, we found a slap bracelet, which had just been brought out when we were in Memento Mori. The Cast Member we spoke with was pretty sure this bracelet costs $9.99 but they hadn’t rung any up yet at the time. The Haunted Mansion Slap Bracelet The Haunted Mansion Slap Bracelet Can’t get enough Haunted Mansion? The Disneyland version of the attraction is about to celebrate its 50th anniversary — find out how you can celebrate in Magic Kingdom! Well, foolish mortals, that wraps up our journey around Magic Kingdom! Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for even more news from the Disney parks and resorts. Do you love The Haunted Mansion as much as we do? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: What’s NEW in Magic Kingdom – Construction Updates, Sweet Treats, and Merchandise Mayhem! What’s New in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom! You Can Get The Turkey Legs Where, When?!? What’s New in Magic Kingdom — Ear Hats, Hair Accessories, and a NEW Portrait Studio! View the full article

Welcome, foolish mortals! ©Disney Kindly step all the way in, please as we explore the newest Disney Wishables Collection. There’s no turning back now. Our tour beings at Hollywood Studios where we spotted the new Haunted Mansion Wishables Collection. These, which have materialized just in time for the Haunted Mansion’s 50th anniversary come with one plush in each pack. Haunted Mansion Wishables What’s so fun is that you’ll never know which spirit is waiting inside. It could be Gus, Ezra, Phineas, Constance, or The Hatbox Ghost! Which ghost do would you want to follow you home? Haunted Mansion Wishables Each pack of the limited release Wishables Haunted Mansion series is $9.99. We found ours at Once Upon a Time in Hollywood Studios, but these can also be found at World of Disney or Once Upon A Toy in Disney Springs. Hi Gus!! We cannot wait to explore the wall-to-wall creeps at both Disney World and Disneyland on August 9th. Disney World will have a few limited time opportunities, merchandise, and a special cupcake. Disneyland will host “The Haunted Mansion: Celebrating 50 Years of Retirement Unliving.” They will also have a whole bunch of treats to celebrate the day — which you can check out here! What’s your favorite classic Disney attraction? Let us know in the comments below. And don’t forget to hurry back…hurry back as we will be sharing more Haunted Mansion news very soon. Related posts: 50 Memories You Should Make Before Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary! What’s New in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! New Merch, Chinese Theater Updates, and More! What’s New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: RIP Biscuits, Living Our Best Disney Snack Life, and the Gondolas Have Returned! View the full article

We’ve been talking a lot about lions lately, in celebration of Disney’s The Lion King, which came roaring into theaters on July 19. Through the “Protect the Pride” global campaign, Disney is helping to address the crisis facing lions and other wildlife across Africa by supporting the Wildlife Conservation Network’s (WCN) Lion Recovery Fund (LRF) and its vision to double the number of lions in the wild by 2050. Since 1995, the Disney Conservation Fund has directed more than $75 million to save wildlife and protect the planet. And now, Disney has already donated more than $2 million to WCN’s LRF and its partners, and will make additional grants as well as invite fans to participate and help increase the donation—for a total contribution of up to $3 million. How is this helping to save lions? The LRF supports a variety of partner organizations working in Africa with a three-pronged approach to lion recovery: investing in conservation projects on the ground, developing campaigns that support the protection and revitalization of Africa’s lion population, and expanding collaborations among organizations. The LRF directs 100 percent of all contributions to projects that recover lions, with zero administrative fees or overhead. As we celebrate World Lion Day this Saturday, August 10, enjoy this video featuring some of the many inspiring and incredible conservationists supported through the Lion Recovery Fund as they share the challenges facing lions and actions they are taking to save them. These individuals were among more than 80 of the world’s leading lion conservation experts who assembled at Walt Disney World Resort earlier this year during the Lion Footprint Forum. We were proud to be able to host this event with WCN – it was the first meeting of its kind in 20 years —bringing together lion conservationists and philanthropists to collaborate on the challenges and opportunities to recover lions. If these conservationists leave you inspired to help “Protect the Pride,” there’s still time to join the effort: Purchase a special edition Simba and Nala plush from Disney Stores* across the globe, or during your visit to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Pick up a copy of The Art and Making of The Lion King to learn about Disney Publishing Worldwide’s contribution and Disney’s commitment to conservation Learn more about the Wildlife Conservation Network’s Lion Recovery Fund Visit Disney.com/LionKingProtectThePride to learn more and follow the social conversation for updates about #TheLionKing #ProtectThePride. *In North America, available at Disney stores, and in the U.S., available at shopDisney.com and select locations at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. View the full article

What better place to celebrate 25 years of love and felicidad together with toda la familia, than The Happiest Place on Earth, Disneyland Resort! This is exactly where the Mexican actor Eduardo Capetillo and his beautiful wife, Mexican actress Bibi Gaitán celebrated their 25th anniversary this month. Eduardo and Bibi were thrilled to share this very special moment with their son Eduardo Jr., their daughters Ana Paula y Alejandra, and their adorable twins Manuel and Daniel, who happened to be celebrating their 5th birthday! This amazing familia took on every opportunity to make some unforgettable memories at the most iconic places in Disneyland park like the Sleeping Beauty Castle, and visited with the resort hosts, Mickey and Minnie! Bibi, Ana Paula y Alejandra also visited The Mad Hatter to make their stay as fashionable as possible with adorable matching pink ears! Congratulations to Eduardo and Bibi, and to the entire familia! View the full article

From droids to porgs, you’re guaranteed to come across an intriguing collection of authentic Star Wars creations during your visit to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland park. When you step foot in Black Spire Outpost, you’ll encounter unique merchant shops and stalls waiting to be discovered. Wander the lively marketplace in search of rare and fascinating creatures or stop by the antiquities shop to uncover mysterious galactic artifacts. We recently toured a few of the shopping locations at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Check out our video below! At Droid Depot, you’re invited to construct your own astromech droids. Choose from either a BB-series or R-series as droid parts come and go on conveyor belts. Then, place your finished droid in an activation station to bring them to life. Watch as your droid interacts with other astromech droids, as well as with certain elements throughout Black Spire Outpost. In addition, Droid Depot offers pre-built droids, droid-inspired toys and apparel and more. Reservations for Droid Depot now can be made in advance via Disneyland.com or the Disneyland app. A valid accepted credit card number is required at the time of booking. Droid Depot may also accommodate walk-ins each day, subject to availability. The Black Spire Outpost marketplace features vendors from across the galaxy. The Creature Stall houses some of the galaxy’s most unique (and cuddly) pets, while Black Spire Outfitters showcases the latest in galactically trendy apparel and accessories.* The Toydarian Toymaker stall is full of toys and games crafted by a Toydarian (the flying alien species was first seen in “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace”). And all tourists visiting Batuu will want to make a stop at Jewels of Bith, offering “trinkets to treasure” and other accessories. Inside Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities, find a selection of rare and mysterious items for sale representing different eras of the Star Wars galaxy, including holocrons, ancient Jedi and Sith artifacts, lightsabers and more. You’ll also see Dok-Ondar at his desk checking his inventory and barking the occasional order at his assistants. You can also show where your loyalties lie with the gear and accessories you pick up within the land. Resistance Supply is a “makeshift” location at the Resistance’s hidden command post, selling pins, badges, hats and other accessories. First Order Cargo, meanwhile, is located near the First Order TIE echelon ship, and offers pins, caps, gear, model ships and more. What goods do you want to bring back from Batuu? All merchandise is subject to availability, while supplies last. *Costumes may not be worn by guests 14 years of age or older. Appropriate Disney bounding – dressing in outfits inspired by favorite characters – is permitted. Please review the current Disneyland Resort costume policy. View the full article

Disney’s NBA Experience officially opens on August 12th. ©Disney And you know what that means…limited-time treats! Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs will be releasing a slam dunk treat, but you’ll have to grab it before the shot clock runs out. The Basketball Mickey Mousse has been created to celebrate the big opening! It features Bailey’s, salted caramel, dark chocolate, and chocolate chiffon cake. That sounds pretty delicious to us! Sadly, this treat will only be available while supplies last on August 12th. ©Disney How adorable is this dessert?? Get an inside look at the NBA Experience here! If you’re a basketball fan, you can already snag your NBA Experience gear at the NBA Experience store. NBA Store Display The NBA Experience is one of many new additions coming to Disney Springs! Lately, Disney has also announced a new cookie dough food truck, a new dining location, an additional Ample Hills Creamery spot, and new Sunshine Churro carts!! We cannot wait to try all these new locations out! Can you? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: NEWS!! Ample Hills Creamery is Coming to Disney Springs! Photo and FUN TOUR! The NBA Experience Store in Disney Springs is NOW Open! Get a First Look INSIDE Disney World’s New NBA Experience! View the full article

Hey, friends!! We’re back with another What’s New update and this time we’re checking out a few resorts around Disney World property. Caribbean Beach Pool So, buckle up because we’re heading to Saratoga Springs, Caribbean Beach, Riviera Resort, Pop Century, Art of Animation, and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Are you ready? Because here we go!! Saratoga Springs Food Update Yeehaw! If you’re looking for a rootin’ tootin’ treat then you’ve gotta see the new Bullseye Cupcake! The Bullseye Cupcake is a chocolate cake with a peanut butter mousse filling, topped with chocolate peanut butter buttercream, candy crisps, and a white chocolate Bullseye topper. Bullseye Cupcake Check out our full review of the Bullseye Cupcake here! Saratoga Springs Merchandise Update When shopping our way throughout Saratoga Springs, we spotted this “I speak fluent Disney” ($39.99) child’s sweatshirt. We hadn’t seen it before, so it’s new to us! I speak fluent Disney And the ICON Minnie collection (that we’ve chatted about in the past) was front and center at Artist’s Palette. Icon Minnie Collection Saratoga Springs Activities Update There were lots of fun things happening around the resort. Over at Community Hall, we found the current painting of the month for Win, Paint, Show. Community Hall Win, Paint, Show! And we hope you’re ready to brain blast some of that long-forgotten Disney knowledge because we also spotted a sign in the lobby advertising Trivia in the Turf Club on Tuesday nights! Trivia Night! Caribbean Beach Construction Update Ready to soar above the traffic around Walt Disney World Resort by hopping on the new Skyliner Gondola System when it opens? Then, you’ll be happy to note that a lot of construction was taking place around the Skyliner Station when we visited Caribbean Beach Resort. Caribbean Beach Skyliner Construction The system is set to officially launch on September 29th, so we’re excited to see lots and lots of progress. Check out the Skyliner’s construction progress here! And ahoy, me hearties! The Pirate Ship was out and ready to be taken across the Seven Seas. Are you ready for the journey? Pirate Adventure Cruise Boat Pirate Adventure Cruise We know our little animal friends are! We spotted these guys around the Resort and thought they deserved a shoutout! Hello there!! Riviera Resort Construction Update December 16th is quickly approaching, which means so is the opening of Disney’s newest Vacation Club Resort — Disney’s Riviera Resort. This resort will feature a new dining location called Topolino’s Terrace — Flavors of the Riviera. Topolino’s Terrace ©Disney We noticed a good bit of progress on the resort’s construction. You can view all of the updates here! Riviera Resort Construction We noticed additional work on Riviera’s Skyliner Station as well. You can check out that construction progress here! Riviera Resort Skyliner Construction Pop Century Food Update While visiting Pop Century, we noticed a few Kahlua Mudslides! These were a new addition to us! Have you ever had one? Kahlua Mudslide Pop Century Construction Update We also noticed some signage over at Pop Century’s Skyliner Station. You can view the progress here! Art of Animation Skyliner Walls continue to block the view from the POP side of the bridge. Skyliner Walls Pop Century Merchandise Update Everything Pop was showing off a few of the leggings that took the world by storm a few weeks ago. You can view all the leggings here! Haunted Mansion Leggings Pop Century Activities Update Looking to have a little fun outside of the parks? Well, the resorts actually have a ton of fun opportunities! For example, Painting with a Pop will offer a new class on August 16th. Painting with a POP! Art of Animation Food Update Now, let’s head over to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. There’s nothing new to report foodwise, but Landscape of Flavors is still selling the Shark and Peanut Butter Paw cupcakes. The Shark Cupcake at Pop Century Resort Art of Animation Construction Update The construction in the lobby continues and has spread pretty significantly. Though guests could still access the check-in area, the surrounding areas were pretty cramped when we visited. Art of Animation Lobby Construction Guests could still access the bathrooms and the arcade — which was advertising half-point happy hour when we were there! Art of Animation Lobby Construction Half Point Happy Hour The water fountains were covered and there was little room for gathering in the area. Art of Animation Lobby Construction Art of Animation Merchandise Update Looking to dress up your “furever” friend in Disney gear? Well, Art of Animation’s Ink and Paint Shop has you covered with the new Disney Tails pet SNACK line. We’ve seen this at a few other locations around the park — you can read more about it here! Disney Tails Collection Art of Animation Activities Update Here’s a glimpse at the activities for the month of August. Art of Animation August Activities Sheet During our visit, guests were able to create tie-dye t-shirts for $17.04. Tie-Dye T-Shirts Tie-Dye Activity Wilderness Lodge Food Update The newest at cupcake at Wilderness Lodge will have you singin’ your ABC’s. Perfect for back-to-school, this PB&J cupcake from Roaring Fork is kiddo approved. Back to School Cupcake Read our full review of the Back to School Cupcake here! We also had the opportunity to say hello to Chip ‘n Dale! Hi guys!! Chip ‘n Dale! Thanks for joining us on our walk around these Disney World resorts! Be sure to check out our latest roundup of What’s New in Epcot if you’re looking to check out a few more of the new additions and happenings around the parks! What’s your favorite Disney Resort? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Did Somebody Say Hotel DISCOUNT?! We’re Looking at You, Disney World Annual Passholders! Disney World Skyliner System Construction Update: Signs, Gondola Testing, and More! Photo Tour! Disney Skyliner Progress (Some Walls Are DOWN!) at Pop Century and Art of Animation Resorts! View the full article

Hey folks!! Today has been a day filled with stellar Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge news, hasn’t it?! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge You can now make reservations 180 days in advance for Savi’s Workshop, Droid Depot, and Oga’s Cantina in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. And as Disneyland announced a few weeks back, reservations can also be made 14 days in advance for its Savi’s and Oga’s locations! BUT that’s not all! Disney has JUST announced that advance reservations can now be made for Droid Depot in Disneyland too. Disneyland’s Droid Depot reservations are now available and can currently be made through August 21st — which is 14 days from now. Droid Depot Reservations Droid Depot is the go-to location on the planet of Batuu if you’re looking to build your very own droid. But creating something as unique as a droid doesn’t come cheap, as this experience will cost $99.99 per person who chooses to build a droid. You can read all about our experience at Droid Depot here! Droid Depot Reservations A credit card is required when booking your reservation, but you will not be charged until you arrive at the activity. Select your Droid parts If you do choose to cancel your reservation, be sure to do it at least one day in advance. Because if you fail to do so, the credit card provided will be charged the full $99.99 per builder. You can click here if you’re looking to make a reservation! Will you be making a reservation to build your very own droid? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Advance Reservations for Oga’s Cantina and Savi’s Workshop Are Now Available!! Virtual Queue and Reservations Details for Visiting Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland Starting June 24th! Galaxy’s Edge GLITCHES — We’re LIVE From Disneyland As Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Opens To the Public! View the full article

Disney Cruise Line recently launched a new website where you (or your family and friends) can purchase specialty onboard gifts and décor to be delivered to your stateroom during your cruise. The new website makes it easier than ever to celebrate special occasions onboard, like birthdays and anniversaries. Some of the onboard gifts and amenities you can purchase include: Mickey and Minnie cupcakes Celebration cakes Holiday treats Beer, wine and champagne packages Flower arrangements Romance packages with sparkling wine, chocolates, a rose and robes Stateroom décor for holidays, birthdays and anniversaries and more Before you set sail, simply log on to the site with your reservation number to browse the gift offerings and place an online order. Family and friends who would like to surprise someone going on a Disney cruise may also place an order by visiting the site and entering the guest’s reservation number and last name. Just make sure you place cake orders no later than seven days prior to sail date and all other orders no later than three days prior to sail date. Disney Cruise Line onboard gifts are the perfect way to make your voyage more memorable or bid loved ones a “bon voyage!” View the full article

It might not be time to put on your Halloween costume just yet, but it is time to celebrate the spookiest attraction at Disney Parks this #WishablesWednesday. That’s right, this month’s Wishables collection, out today, celebrates the classic attraction that opened at Disneyland park 50 years ago this month! These are the kind of hitch-hiking ghosts that you want to follow you …. All the way home! 50 years of happy haunts and grim-grinning-ghosts certainly make a visit to the Haunted Mansion a must-do experience celebrated by fans around the world. With this new collection inspired by the classic attraction, you can add some spooky fun to your growing Wishables collection. Did you know that the hitch-hiking ghosts have names? You can pick up the open edition, Gus the prisoner, or one of the other ghosts in the blind bags — Ezra the skeleton, Phineas the traveler, Constance the bride or the Hatbox Ghost! Pick up the newest Haunted Mansion Wishables collection during your next trip to Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, or on shopDisney starting on August 14. Then don’t forget to share your next Wishables adventure using #DisneyParksWishables and #WishablesWednesday, we love seeing where you bring your Wishables during your Disney vacation! Looking for more ways to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Haunted Mansion? Click here for ways to celebrate at Walt Disney World and click here for ways to celebrate at Disneyland Resort! View the full article

Since opening Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland park earlier this summer, guests have been transported to the remote planet of Batuu. This historic opening is the largest and most technologically advanced single-themed land expansion ever in a Disney park, and guests are continuing to marvel at this immersive planet filled with unique sights, sounds, smells and tastes. Take part in your own Star Wars story as you sample galactic food and beverages, encounter aliens, droids and other inhabitants, discover an intriguing collection of merchant shops and take the controls of the most famous ship in the galaxy aboard Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. Experience an epic adventure at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for yourself, now open at Disneyland park in California and opening Aug. 29 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida. View the full article

We’re counting down the days until Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge officially opens in Disney’s Hollywood Studios on August 29th! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney World Now we’re even more excited for the immersive new land to open because reservations are now available for Oga’s Cantina, Savi’s Workshop, and Droid Depot! Currently, all three of these experiences are available to book 180 days in advance on Disney World’s website. If you’ve always wanted to build your own lightsaber, you’ll be able to do so at Savi’s Workshop — but it’ll cost you a nice chunk of change! The experience costs $199.99 per builder and you must provide a credit card guarantee. If you need to cancel your reservation, you must do so at least one day in advance or you will be charged the full amount. Note that you may arrive no earlier than 15 minutes prior to your reservation time slot and that late arrivals may not be accommodated. Savi’s Workshop Reservation Page Learn about our experience at Savi’s Workshop in Disneyland here! Savi’s Workshop Reservation Page You may currently book an advance reservation at Savi’s Workshop online. Oga’s Cantina Page Oga’s Cantina Reservation Availability Oga’s Cantina Reservation Availability Droid Depot Reservation Page Droid Depot Reservation Page Now August 29th feels closer than ever! Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge news! Which experience are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: Disney World’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Map Is Now Available on My Disney Experience! What’s New in Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Entrance Construction, Star Wars Merch, and More!! What’s NEW?! Our First Look At Oga’s Cantina in Disney World’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge! View the full article

Hey, pals! We’re back with another DFB Video!! Cinderella Castle We get A LOT of questions about Disney World, so today we’re tackling a few of those topics to bring you an FAQ about the Disney parks! From managing FastPass tiers, finding late-night food, to adult-only vacations, we’ve got all the answers you need in our latest DFB Video!  And if you love this video, there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel! By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode! So check out the video and then let us know: Your Disney World questions!! Related posts: DFB Video: Best of the Fest at the Disney World AND Disneyland Festivals DFB Video: Star Wars GALAXY’S EDGE IS OPEN! DFB Video: Introducing Disney’s Newest Restaurants View the full article

There are so many exciting food locations coming to Disney World! Yesterday, we told you that a cookie dough food truck, Sunshine Churro carts, and Ample Hills Creamery are all coming to Disney Springs. Now we have even MORE news to share! Disney Springs Beatrix will open its first restaurant in Florida in Disney Springs West Side! According to Disney, the location will be a “neighborhood restaurant, coffeehouse and grab-and-go market featuring healthy food options including vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan along with fresh-squeezed juice cocktails.” The restaurant, helmed by Lettuce You Entertain You Enterprises, will also feature a bakery and full-service bar. ©Disney Marc Jacobs, Executive Partner and Divisional President, says “Beatrix represents the way people are eating today – it’s that mix of health and comfort. Whether grabbing a cup of coffee and your favorite pastry, or having a cocktail, lunch, or dinner with friends, it’s your neighborhood meeting place.” We’re already looking forward to trying this new location when it opens. We don’t have an opening date for Beatrix just yet, but we’ll be sure to keep you updated as we learn more! Are you excited about this new dining location? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: NEWS!! Ample Hills Creamery is Coming to Disney Springs! Just Announced! A COOKIE DOUGH Food Truck is Coming to Disney Springs! Is it Possible We Like Beverly Now? Find Out How Disney World’s Most-Hated Soda Got a Remix! View the full article

It’s no secret that Disney Springs has some of the best dining at Walt Disney World Resort and anywhere in Central Florida for that matter. Within the last year we’ve opened two new restaurants, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill and Jaleo by José Andrés, both headed by James Beard Award Winning Chefs. (Fun fact: We’re up to six James Beard Award-winning, chef-owned locations now!) We’ve got it all—Italian, Mexican, Asian, Spanish, and all-American plus plenty of unique spots to cure any sweet tooth. But what if I told you we have more on the way? That’s right— I’m excited to share details about another restaurant coming to Disney Springs! Beatrix, owned by Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises (a Chicago-based restaurant group), will open their first restaurant in Florida at Disney Springs West Side. Beatrix is your neighborhood restaurant, coffeehouse and grab-and-go market featuring healthy food options including vegetarian, gluten-free, and vegan along with fresh-squeezed juice cocktails. The restaurant will also offer a bakery and full-service bar with a selection of all-American beer and wine. Executive Partner and Divisional President, Marc Jacobs, explains “Beatrix represents the way people are eating today – it’s that mix of health and comfort. Whether grabbing a cup of coffee and your favorite pastry, or having a cocktail, lunch, or dinner with friends, it’s your neighborhood meeting place.” Keep an eye out on Disney Parks Blog for future updates on Beatrix – as well as City Works Eatery & Pour House, anticipated to open this winter – and Ample Hills Creamery, and be sure to follow @DisneySprings on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook for all current foodie news. View the full article

Whether they’re designing the latest attractions or leading entire Parks, women around the world are using their unique talents to make Disney magic for guests every day. For Aimée Rivera, a 23-year culinary veteran and Chef de Cuisine at Walt Disney World Resort, creating magical experiences means crafting delectable, award-winning fine dining experiences that defy guest expectations. A native of Guaynabo, Puerto Rico, Aimée moved to the United States in 1991 to pursue her educational journey with the dream of becoming a chef. She was inspired by her mother – her personal culinary idol – to learn as much as she could about food and cooking to bring people happiness, just as her mother had always done. “She could cook without recipes or guidance – she just had the palate. No dish was too complicated, no culinary task too complicated, you could tell she really loved it,” Aimée shared. Aimée pursued culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island, and immediately following school, entered the culinary industry. From working in Atlanta, Georgia just as the city was getting excited for the 1996 Summer Olympics, to the Woodlands Resort & Inn, a AAA 5 Diamond resort in South Carolina, Aimee built an impressive culinary career before accepting a sous chef role at Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa in 2002. Once at Disney, Aimée worked her way up to a Chef position and now in her current role as Chef de Cuisine, she oversees important restaurant aspects like menu development and scheduling, budgeting and quality control. In Aimée’s tenure, she’s helped Victoria & Albert’s achieve impressive accolades including the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award and the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award for the restaurant’s unique and notable dining experience of combining classic Victorian elegance with haute American cuisine in a refined atmosphere. “At Victoria & Albert’s we combine classic with modern. I love aspects of both styles,” she says. “Past travels, literature and people in the industry have helped create that experience.” Aimee says that her coworkers would describe her as energetic, passionate and detail-oriented – all traits that help her keep up with her busy days of creating delicious dishes in an unforgettable setting. “Food & Beverage is a challenging industry that is very demanding,” she notes. “You need to be firm in what you believe and work with integrity.” It’s an industry that Aimée can’t imagine not being a part of. But what’s her top reason she’s continues to be a chef? “I love food. Period.” Here at Disney, we’re proud of how Aimee and all of our cast members put their passions to work to bring magical guests experiences to life. Stay tuned as this series continues with more remarkable stories of the #WomenBehindtheMagic! View the full article