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Welcome to our roundup of What’s New at Disney’s Contemporary, Grand Floridian, and Polynesian Village Resorts! Grand Floridian Resort in DIsney World We’ve got a lot to tell you about, including new menu items (like seasonal BACON) and construction updates! Let’s get started with what we found at the Contemporary Resort! Contemporary Resort Food Update At The Wave…of American Flavors, we noticed that the pork tenderloin dish has been replaced with a bone-in pork chop on the dinner menu and on the Disney Vacation Club pre-fixe menu. The Wave…of American Flavors Dinner Menu The Wave…of American Flavors DVC Pre-Fixe Menu There were quite a few menu changes upstairs at California Grill! California Grill The new Corn & Carnitas Flatbread and returning Heirloom Tomato Flatbread have replaced the Sonoma County and Porchetta Flatbreads. The menu has also introduced the new Sunset Roll, which replaced the Double Tuna Conch Roll. The Medusa Roll has made its debut in addition to the Herb Porchetta appetizer. Also, Tomato Bisque has replaced Pozole Verde Soup. Finally, the California Peach Salad has replaced the Peaches and Cream Salad, while the Heirloom Tomato Salad has replaced the Market Strawberry Salad. California Grill Menu We’re not sure how new it is, but we had to snap a quick photo of the snack time trivia sign we spotted outside Fantasia Market. Do you know all the answers?? Snack Trivia Contemporary Resort Construction Update There was a bit of Monorail-related work when we were at the Contemporary. When we exited the Monorail, we were guided to a side stairwell which then took us to the fourth floor of the resort. Contemporary Resort Monorail Construction Contemporary Resort Monorail Construction Contemporary Resort Monorail Construction We assume this construction is just for maintenance purposes, but we’ll let you know if we learn more! Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Food Update Over at the Grand Floridian, we spotted a few menu changes we wanted to tell you about. At Gasparilla Island Grill, there are two recent additions — a Hazelnut Chocolate S’more Tart and the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich. Gasparilla Island Grill Menu We didn’t get a chance to try the new tart, but if you’d like to give it a shot, you may do so for $5.49 or a Disney Dining Plan snack credit. Hazelnut Chocolate S’more Tart We DID, however, try the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, which is currently featured as the Chef’s Selection Sandwich for $13.99. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich The BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is made with BBQ pulled pork, spicy Pimento cheese, crispy onion straws, and house-made bread butter pickles. It’s served on a Brioche bun with house-made chips. It is a bit messy, but we did enjoy it! Read our full review of the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich here! We also noticed a couple of menu changes at Narcoossee’s. The Heirloom Tomato Salad has replaced the Seasonal Green Salad. Also, Scottish Salmon has replaced King Alaskan Salmon, but the dish’s sides remain the same. Narcoossee’s Menu Narcoossee’s Menu Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Construction Update Outside the Grand Floridian, we noticed some intriguing construction work. We don’t know what this construction is for, but we’re hoping it might POSSIBLY be for a potential walkway between the resort and the Magic Kingdom. Grand Floridian Construction Read more about the Grand Floridian construction here! Polynesian Village Resort Food Update Next door at the Polynesian Village Resort, we found some new seasonal BACON at Kona Island! Seasonal Bacon This bacon is decked out with chocolate, coconut, and pineapple for a super interesting treat. You can grab the bacon for $4 — unfortunately, it is not snack credit-eligible as far as we know. Pineapple Coconut Chocolate-Covered Bacon Check out our full review of the Pineapple Coconut Chocolate-Covered Bacon here! At Pineapple Lanai, we spotted an adorable little sign displaying the location’s featured flavors! We could never have too many Dole Whips, could we?? Pineapple Lanai Sign Polynesian Village Resort Merchandise Update To conclude our journey around the Monorail resorts, we saw a super cute Luau Dancer Shirt for the first time! We found the shirt for $38 at Boutiki. Luau Dancer Shirt Thanks for joining us on our tour of Disney World’s Monorail resorts! Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more news from the Disney parks and resorts. Which Disney World resorts would you like us to visit next? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: What’s New at Disney World’s Monorail Resorts! What’s New on Walt Disney World’s Monorail Resort Loop: NEW Stroller Gear, Colorful Merch, and a Dole Whip Hack! What’s New Around the Monorail Loop: Disney World’s Polynesian Village, Grand Floridian, and Contemporary Resorts! View the full article

Learn to Draw: ‘Pie-Eyed’ Mickey Mouse Wraps Special Art Series View the full article

Over the past couple of years, the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort has undergone an incredible transformation with new additions, refurbishments, and more. With all of these exciting changes, I thought it might be a good idea to create a handy guide to all of the new and existing restaurants you can find throughout the shopping, dining, and entertainment district. With so much to choose from, you’ll never have to go hungry when spending an afternoon in Anaheim! Below, I’ve listed out all of the new and newly enhanced restaurants alongside our incredible collection of existing locations. No matter where you dine, you’ll be swept away by amazing flavors and good vibes. But remember, some of these popular locations take reservations, so be sure to book yours in advance! NEW DINING LOCATIONS Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes and CrazyShake Window by Black Tap Take a bite out of a mouthwatering burger or sip on one of the restaurant’s famous CrazyShake milkshakes at Black Tap Craft Burgers and Shakes. With an atmosphere that will bring you back to the old-school days of hip-hop and pop, this brand-new bistro offers a savory selection of craft burgers as well as chicken sandwiches, wings, salads, vegan burgers, and veggies. In addition, you can go to town on one of their signature, whimsical, over-the-top milkshakes stacked with cake, cookies, and retro candies rolled in frosting! And if you’re just interested in the milkshakes, you can visit the CrazyShake Window located just outside the main entrance! Ballast Point Brewing Co. This new family-friendly brewery and kitchen features craft beer and a full menu of locally-inspired cuisine including Duck Confit Nachos, Baja-style Fish Tacos, and the Smokey Blue Burger featuring an 8 oz. Kobe and Chuck Blend patty with blue cheese, Applewood-smoked bacon, BBQ sauce, pickles, and crispy onions on a brioche bun. Pair your meal with hand-crafted drafts ranging from crisp and bright lagers to award-winning IPAs. The restaurant is also located on the second floor and features a patio offering amazing views of the Downtown Disney District. Naples Ristorante e Bar and Napolini Pizzeria Celebrate the charm, cuisine, and spirit of southern Italy at these classic Neapolitan eateries. Offering a second floor patio with sweeping views as well as a two-story dining room and an outdoor bar, you’ll feel inspired by the whimsical décor, open-air kitchen, and impressive wine cellar. Whether you’re sitting down for a meal filled with bold and satisfying Italian flavors or you’re eating on-the-go with a make-your-own pizza, these two new restaurants are great options for anyone! Salt & Straw Discover taste-provoking ice cream at this family-run scoop shop! Here you’ll find handmade ice cream featuring small-batch flavors created with local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. Each month, you can also indulge in new limited-time specials showcasing flavors rooted in seasonality. Splitsville Luxury Lanes Grab a bite and bowling ball at this rock-and-rollin’ restaurant. This eclectic eatery fuses modern and retro elements for a fresh spin on food, music, and entertainment. From burgers and fries to sushi, pizzas, and more, you’ll find a wide variety of delicious items on the menu. Dine tableside or chow down at one of the 20 bowling lanes available and on select nights, take in the sounds of live music while enjoying a great bar and patio seating. OTHER FAVORITE DINING LOCATIONS Catal Restaurant This relaxed and elegant restaurant sits at the center of the Downtown Disney District and features gourmet cuisine with homespun hospitality. Earl of Sandwich Inspired by a 250-year legacy of sandwich-making, here you’ll find an array of unique and delicious specialty sandwiches perfected by the inventor’s own family as well as salads, desserts, and more! Jamba Juice Refuel here with refreshing and revitalizing smoothies made with fresh fruits and veggies. La Brea Bakery Café and La Brea Bakery Express If you love freshly-baked bread, you’ll love these popular locations! Enjoy the craftsman-style café with artisanal sandwiches, fresh baked goods, healthful salads, and fresh California cuisine or try some fresh fare on-the-go from the express kitchen. You can even find a full breakfast menu here! Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Express Here you’ll dine on delicious fresh seafood and Cajun-Creole cuisine made with flavorful ingredients and a proud family tradition of southern hospitality direct from Louisiana. And of course, it wouldn’t be a true New Orleans-style restaurant without beignets! Sprinkles Cupcakes If you love cupcakes then you’ll love Sprinkles! Try an irresistible variety of hand-crafted gourmet cupcakes, seasonal specialties and decadent cookie creations. Tortilla Jo’s and Taqueria at Tortilla Jo’s Savor south-of-the-border specialties in a vibrant setting with items like made-to-order guacamole, tacos, burritos, tamales, fajitas, and more. The Taqueria also features make-your-own tacos, bowls, burritos and more! Uva Bar This swanky outdoor bar is a great place to sit back and relax while savoring Spanish-style tapas, entrées, craft beers, and signature cocktails. Wetzel’s Pretzels Pretzel lovers, listen up! You won’t want to miss out on these freshly-baked pretzels with tasty dips, cheesy dog bites, pizza bits, and fresh-squeezed lemonade! For more information on all of the restaurants listed above, visit the Disneyland Resort Dining Page or call 714 781-DINE (714 781-3463). View the full article

Have you ever wanted to hang your very own royal portrait in your castle back home? Well, now you can! Sir Mickey’s We think Disney’s PhotoPass photographers can take some really incredible close-up shots, and now there’s a NEW photo location in Disney World. The Royal Portrait Studio has opened at Sir Mickey’s in Magic Kingdom! Royal Portrait Studio Sign You can now take a regal picture seated in front of a blossoming tree, a column, and arched walls that will make every little girl, boy, and adult look and feel like nobility. (Say hello to this year’s Christmas card photo!) Portrait Area Pick a prop, like Snow White’s apple or Mary Poppins’s parasol, from the table to add the finishing touch to your portrait. Prop Table And, don’t forget to greet Princess Minnie with a bow or a curtsy on your way out! Princess Minnie At Sir Mickey’s We want to debut our photograph at our very own royal ball. Do you think the Disney Princesses will come?? Have you visited the Royal Portrait Studio yet? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: What’s New at Magic Kingdom — PIZZA ROLLS, Strawberry Vanilla Ice Cream, the BEST Little Mermaid Mug Yet, and MORE! Dinglehopper Alert: Little Mermaid Alex and Ani MERMAID HAIR Bracelet Spotted In Disney World! Will Disney World’s Grand Floridian And Polynesian Village Resorts Get A Walkway To The Magic Kingdom? View the full article

We cannot wait to experience this year’s D23 Expo. ©Disney D23 has already announced that guests attending the expo will get a first look at films like Onward and Frozen 2. Information about Epcot’s transformation will be shared, Christina Aguilera will become a Disney Legend, and Dancing with the Stars, National Geographic, and The Simpsons are all slated to make appearances. Now, D23 has announced that those attending the 2019 D23 Expo will be some of the very FIRST to experience Disney’s new streaming platform, Disney+. Here’s a look at all of the streaming panels that will take over the D23 Expo this year. Disney+ First Look Showcase There will be an exclusive Disney+ preview Friday, August 23rd. Yvette Nicole Brown will host the presentation as never-before-seen content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic are shared. Expect surprise guests, performances, a first look at Lady and the Tramp, The Mandalorian, High School Musical: The Musical: The Series, and more! This will all take place in Hall D23 at 3:30 on August 23rd. Guests can also check out an advance screening of the first episode of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series at 5:30 PM on August 23rd in the D23 Arena. Guests can also expect to see the new cast on the arena stage! Disney+ Pavilion On the Expo show floor, the Disney+ Pavilion will offer demonstrations of the Disney+ app. Guests will also be able to check out costumes and props from a few Disney+ Originals. Here, guests will also be able to subscribe to the service with a special offer! ©Disney Hulu Pavilion There will also be a Hulu Pavilion. Here, guests will find more than “20 iconic costumes and artifacts, including the famous red robe worn by the likes of Elisabeth Moss in The Handmaid’s Tale, paintings featured in season one of Castle Rock, and George Clooney’s Catch-22 costume.” Attendees will also see props from new Hulu Originals like Little Fires Everywhere, in addition to shows like The Good Doctor, Brooklyn Nine-Nine, and The Goldbergs. Disney+ Pavilion Stage Programming According to D23.com, the Disney+ Pavilion Stage will host three full days of panels. You can view the full lineup as released by D23 below. Friday, August 23 10 AM – ESPN+ Presents Peyton’s Places Special Screening and NFL 100th Anniversary Trivia 12 PM – Walt Disney Animation Studios Panel with Eric Goldberg and Mark Henn 12:30 PM – The World According to Jeff Goldblum Q&A with Jeff Goldblum 1:15 PM – Phineas and Ferb Conversation with Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh ©Disney Saturday, August 24 10 AM – ESPN+ Presents SneakerCenter Panel moderated by show director Bobbito Garcia 11 AM – ESPN+ Presents SneakerCenter Demonstration by Mr. Cartoon 12 PM – Stargirl Performance and Panel 1 PM – The Simpsons Trivia with Yeardley Smith 1:15 PM – Marvel’s Hero Project Panel with Sana Amanat, Sarah Amos, and Stephen Wacker 2:30 PM – Forky Asks a Question and Lamp Life Creative Panel with Val LaPointe, Bob Peterson, Mark Nielsen, and Marc Sondheimer 3 PM – Secret Society of Second Born Royals Q&A with Peyton Elizabeth Lee and Skylar Astin ©Disney Sunday, August 25 10:45 AM – Prop Culture Movie Prop Showcase and Q&A with Dan Lanigan, Jason Henry, Tony Swatton, and Fon Davis 11:15 AM – Be Our Chef Games with Angela Kinsey 12 PM – Monsters At Work Behind-the-Scenes Presentation with Bobs Gannaway and Ferrell Barron 12:45 PM – The Imagineering Story Conversation with Leslie Iwerks and Bob Weis 1:15 PM – Short Circuit Creative Panel 3:30 PM – Pixar’s SparkShorts Screening 5 PM – ESPN+ Hosted DJ Wrap Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! We cannot wait to check out all that’s in store at the D23 Expo. Are you going this year? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Schedule and Sneak Peeks Released for D23 Expo 2019! Disney Legends, Film News, Park Updates and MORE! Christina Aguilera Will Be Honored as a Disney Legend at D23 Expo 2019 National Geographic to Appear at D23 Expo for the First Time! View the full article

We love to dress up our theme park attire in any way we can, which is why we were thrilled with what we found at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom today! Mickey’s Star Traders Pull out one of your old denim jackets, and get ready to go to infinity and beyond in a galaxy far, far away with the latest Disney merch! Toy Story, Star Wars, and Mickey Balloons patches have been spotted at Mickey’s Star Traders! If you want to keep it classic, look no further than the Mickey Balloons patch for $9.99. Mickey Balloons Patch is $9.99 Blast off to a cheesy new world called Pizza Planet, where you can meet some Aliens (or even a Sheriff trying to rescue a Space Ranger) with these Toy Story Patches for $19.99! Toy Story Patches If you want to go deeper into space, check out this set of patches inspired by droids, the Force, Darth Vader for $16.99. Dark and Light Side Star Wars Patches Or perhaps you’ll want to make friends with Yoda himself? You can do it with another new set of Star Wars patches for $16.99! Pink, Teal, and Purple Star Wars Patches These patches just might make all our park outfits 10x cuter! Have you picked up the new patches at Mickey’s Star Traders? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: What’s New at Magic Kingdom — PIZZA ROLLS, Strawberry Vanilla Ice Cream, the BEST Little Mermaid Mug Yet, and MORE! HE’S BACK!! Sonny Eclipse Has Made His Long-Awaited Return To Magic Kingdom! The Most Adorable Disney Dream Friends Have Arrived in Disney World! View the full article

For nearly a year, Disney Aspire has been offering hourly Cast Members the opportunity to put their dreams within reach through a variety of certificate and degree programs 100% covered by Disney. Cast Members can now pursue their career dreams, like Jamal Ward, a cook at The Wave… of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World Resort, who has gone back to high school at age 31 and is on the road to his future dream law enforcement career. We’re excited to share Jamal’s journey in this installment of our #DreamsWithinReach series, following inspiring Cast Members as they reach their goals. Growing up in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Jamal developed a culinary passion at a young age, as he always enjoyed cooking and baking with his mom. “She passed on her love of food and cooking to me,” said Jamal. Jamal says that the best part about being a cook is, “getting to make different dishes and working directly with the chefs as the menu changes. I love how the chefs treat me as a student and help me to grow in my career. They are always willing to share everything they know and help me get better.” After having his first child at a young age, Jamal made the tough decision not to finish high school so that he could start working to take care of his family. “At that point, I felt that working and earning money was more important than pursuing my education. I attempted to go back to school in 2007 before working at Disney, but I didn’t have the support I needed to be successful. After joining Disney, I not only found the Disney Aspire program, but the support I needed from my leaders to be successful in earning my education.” Jamal was initially hesitant to sign up for Disney Aspire because he wasn’t sure if he would have the time to balance school with work and raising his children. “However, with everything paid up front by Disney, I had every reason to do this, and do it now,” he explained. He became convinced to enroll in Disney Aspire’s High School Completion Program after a heart-to-heart phone call with his younger brother. Jamal said, “He was the one who convinced me to enroll. He said, this is something you have to do – apply now.” Jamal decided that it was time to work through his fears and to take steps to complete his GED. Originally scheduled to graduate in 2020, he studied diligently during work breaks and at night while his kids slept and graduated in only four months! Pictured above: Jamal Ward with Catherine Powell President of Disney Parks, Western Region during a visit to commemorate his successful GED completion through Disney Aspire.Jamal’s educational journey didn’t stop at earning his high school diploma. Through Disney Aspire, he’s now enrolled in Valencia College where he is earning A’s and exploring his passions in business and hospitality management to pursue a future career in law enforcement. With his return to school, Jamal hopes to inspire his young kids. “If I can go back at my age and do it, they definitely can.” We’re thrilled that Jamal is able to participate in Disney Aspire to reach his career goals and even discover new passions. “Disney Aspire has opened up so many doors for me, and I’m so grateful for this amazing program,” said Jamal. Since launch in 2018, this unique program has been helping Cast Members pursue their dreams with having 100 percent of the costs of tuition and books covered by Disney. We’re proud to provide resources that help our Cast Members reach their dreams and achieve their goals. Don’t forget to check back next month for a special edition of #DreamsWithinReach as we celebrate one year of Disney Aspire! Learn more about Disney Aspire and apply by visiting aspire.disney.com. View the full article

Today (July 30th) is the International Day of Friendship, which is a cause for celebration in our book! Sprinkles in Disney Springs Sprinkles (which is found in both Disneyland and Disney World) is having a BOGO offer in-store TODAY to celebrate the holiday! Cupcake Case All you have to do is whisper “BFF” when you purchase a delicious cupcake, and you’ll receive another for FREE! Are you and your bestie going to pick matching flavors or mix it up? International Day Of Friendship BOGO Offer ©Sprinkles If you’re in Disneyland, you can find Sprinkles in the Downtown Disney District, and in Walt Disney World, you can find it in Disney Sprinkles. We couldn’t think of a better (or tastier) way to celebrate our friends! Who’s celebrating the International Day of Friendship at Sprinkles with you today? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: It’s Friday! Celebrate the Weekend with This Sweet Deal from Sprinkles! NEWS! TWO Favorite Sprinkles Cupcakes Flavors Return For A Limited Time! We Have the Scoop on Sprinkles’ National Ice Cream Day Deal! View the full article

One of my son’s first favorite attractions at the Walt Disney World Resort was Living with the Land at Epcot. Here, guests can experience the innovative ways that Disney Horticulturists grow all kinds of crops, including 9-pound lemons and Mickey-shaped pumpkins. How well do you know this attraction? Put your knowledge to the test below! View the full article

Two words: Costume. Contest. If you’ve ever sailed with us during the Halloween season, you know that Disney cruisers take our costume celebrations very seriously. The attire that families don for the festive parties are truly impressive! So why should you start prepping now for your Halloween on the High Seas cruise this fall? Because you’ll want to dress to impress! Not only will there be plenty of opportunities to wear your creative outfit to family celebrations throughout the cruise, you can earn all the bragging rights if you win the “Halloween Isn’t Just for Kids” adult-only costume contest. But be prepared that you’ll have some serious competition! Of course the fun doesn’t stop there. Children and families will shiver in delight during “Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party,” a scare-a-bration alive with ghoulish games, trick-or-treating, dancing and some favorite Disney Pals bedecked in Halloween attire. Thrills and chills await you at “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing and Scream,” an interactive movie experience followed by a meet-and-greet with Jack and Sally. Other frightfully fun activities include mask-making, pumpkin-carving and an eerie campfire-style storytelling experience on deck, “Haunted Stories of the Sea.” Plus, there’s the spooky Pumpkin Tree that magically comes to life throughout your cruise. During every sailing, the tree magically transforms from eerie and barren into the life of the party, with sprouting Jack-O-Lanterns, flickering lights and a booming voice. The Pumpkin Tree is tended to by a mysterious caretaker, who tells stories of the haunted holiday as guests gather in the ghostly shadow of the tree. It’s not too late to join us for Halloween on the High Seas this fall. Options include Bahamian and Caribbean sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida, a variety of cruise lengths from San Diego to the Mexican Riviera, and cruises from New York to Bermuda, The Bahamas or Canada. Check out all of the options , and then start planning your epic costume! View the full article

In recent weeks, Disney World has released quite a few discounts and deals, from the Ultimate Christmas Package to the free dining offer for the fall and winter. Animal Kingdom Lodge And we at DFB want to make sure you get some $$$$$ off your stay, so let’s see which one is right for YOU! Remember, even if you already have a hotel or vacation package booked, you can always call Disney to see if you can get a discount applied to your current booking — or they can rebook you into a lower-priced package or stay. It’s kind of like…magic! ;-D Let’s get started! Family Vacation Package at the All-Star Resorts Is your family of four hoping to visit Disney World this fall? If so, this might be the deal for you! According to Disney, for less than $2073, the package “includes a 3-night stay in a standard room at a Disney’s All-Star Resort hotel and 3-day Walt Disney World Resort theme park base tickets.” So that means plenty of time to enjoy Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Rise of the Resistance when they open! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge The special price is offered for arrivals most nights September 1st through November 22nd and November 27th through December 18th of this year. Who’s It For?: This one is going to be great for first-time families who aren’t sure yet if they want to splurge on a big, all-encompassing Disney vacation; budget travelers; and those of us who just NEED to get to Galaxy’s Edge for a quick tour right when it opens or when Rise of the Resistance opens! Learn more about the Family Vacation Package here! Room-Only Discount at Disney World Resorts If you’re traveling to Walt Disney World this fall or winter, you might be able to get a discount on your resort stay! The discount varies based on which resort you choose. Select Value Resorts are eligible for a 10% discount, while select Moderate Resorts offer a 15% discount, and you can get a 20% discount on select Deluxe Resorts and Villas. Port Orleans Resort — French Quarter You can book your stay NOW through September 29th for ARRIVAL dates most nights from September 1st through September 28th. And for most Sundays – Thursdays from September 29th through November 7th. You can also book through Christmas Eve for stays most nights beginning November 10 through December 24th. Wilderness Lodge Who’s It For?: This discount could be great for you if you aren’t taking advantage of a free dining offer and you want to have flexibility in planning the other components of your trip; if you already have your tickets purchased; or if you’d rather not be locked into a vacation package, which has a cancellation date of 45 days in advance versus the room-only cancellation date of 5 days in advance. The other bonus here is that with a vacation package, you have to have your full package paid off 45 days in advance. A room-only booking only needs a one-night deposit at time of booking, and the rest of the cost due at check-in. Learn more about general public Room-Only Disney World resort discounts here! Annual Passholder Hotel Discount Are you a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder? Then, you may want to look into the Annual Passholder hotel discounts at Disney World. Annual Passholder Magnet Annual Passholders can get up to a 30% discount by staying in select Walt Disney World Resort hotels on most nights September 1st through December 24th. Advance reservations are required to take advantage of this offer. You can book now through December 24th for a minimum stay of 1 night and a maximum stay of 14 nights. Who’s It For?: Annual Passholders, of course! ;-D And booking room-only means you get that benefit of a five-day cancellation window and paying the majority of the cost — minus your one-night deposit — at check-in. Learn more about the Annual Passholder room-only hotel discount here! Ultimate Christmas Package Christmas truly is just around the corner and if you’re looking to visit Walt Disney World during the holidays, the Ultimate Christmas Package may be perfect for you. Main Street USA at Christmas Time According to Disney, this package includes your hotel room for five nights, a four-day Park Hopper ticket, and access to holiday-themed events and special offerings, including access to select Animal Kingdom attractions, admission to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and more! Christmas Decorations in Animal Kingdom’s Asia Who’s It For:? If your family likes to take in as many activities as possible during your Disney World vacation, this may be the package for you. But, if you like to take things slow and prefer to experience one park per day, it may not make the most sense to take advantage of this offer since part of the price includes extra experiences. Note that the price will depend on which Disney World resort you choose. Learn more about the Ultimate Christmas Package here! My First Disney Getaway Package If you’re hoping to take your little one on his or her first Disney World vacation, the ‘My First Disney Getaway’ Package might be right for you. The package starts at $999 (for two adults and one child ages 3-9) and includes a 2-night stay in a select All-Star Resort, 2-Park Magic Your Way tickets with single-day admissions to Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom, one stroller rental per day, and a merchandise bag. Cinderella Castle The package is valid for arrivals most Sunday through Wednesday nights from August 11th through September 25th, so if you’re looking for a weekend getaway to Disney World, this package might not be your best option. But, if you have some flexibility and want to take your little one to the Most Magical Place on Earth, this may be a good choice for you! All-Star Sports Entrance Who’s It For?: Definitely first-timers looking to get a taste of the magic for a lower price. And since the package does take care of most of the planning for you, it’s a less stressful situation if you’re new to Disney World. That said, it is ONLY two days and allows admittance to only two of Disney’s four theme parks (not including Hollywood Studios, where Galaxy’s Edge will be opening). So you’re limiting your options with this one. But if all you need is a two day trip with a couple of quick park visits, this is a good option. Learn more about the ‘My First Disney Getaway’ Package here! So, which discount is right for you? Well, that really depends on what is most important for your family. If you’re looking for a flexible option, consider booking a room-only discount. If you want a package with several bells and whistles, the Ultimate Christmas Package may be right for you. Either way, don’t forget to reach out to our friends at Small World Vacations! They’ll be able to help you decide which vacation package is best for your family. Have you booked one of these vacation packages for your next Disney World trip? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: News! Disney World Has Announced the ULTIMATE Christmas Package 21 Myths About Walt Disney World Food DEBUNKED Ticket Discounts on Disney Theme Parks, Water Parks, and Special Events! See How Much You Can SAVE! View the full article

If you find yourself at Disney’s Grand Floridian, Gasparilla Island Grill is a great option for counter-service comfort food. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich We spotted the BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich on the menu a few weeks back, and we’re glad we got the opportunity to try and review it for you! Gasparilla Island Grill Menu The BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich is made with BBQ pulled pork, spicy Pimento cheese, crispy onion straws, and house-made bread butter pickles. It’s served on a Brioche bun with house-made chips. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich We enjoyed the flavors of this sandwich, and the pickles were our favorite part! They weren’t overwhelmingly sour, but instead, they were nice, light, and bright! After taking a few bites, we wished there would have been a few more onion straws to counteract the VAST amount of pork. It just really needed a bit more crunch! So, maybe try yours out with a few of the house-made chips on top. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich The pimento cheese was good…but not great. It adds a bit of heat to the sandwich but didn’t blow us away in terms of flavor. The pork itself was yummy! We really enjoyed the texture of the meat and the sweet and tangy flavors of the BBQ sauce. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich The bread…oh the bread. It was a real downfall for us! It really didn’t do its job in terms of keeping the sandwich together. Instead it kind of just fell apart which made for a VERY messy sandwich. BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich Overall, it was good! We think it’s a great option for someone who is looking to mix it up a bit. But, it’s not a must-get meal by any means… You can find it for $13.99 at Gasparilla Island Grill at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. How do you like to mix it up when dining at Walt Disney World? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: What’s New at the Magic Kingdom Monorail Resorts: Grand Floridian Easter Eggs Arrive, Contempo Cafe’s NEWEST Cupcake and a Dole Whip Margarita at Disney’s Polynesian Resort! What’s New on Walt Disney World’s Monorail Resort Loop: NEW Stroller Gear, Colorful Merch, and a Dole Whip Hack! You’ve GOT to See INSIDE This Grand Floridian Easter Egg! View the full article

Feta, pita, hummus, gyros — we seriously love Mediterranean food! Paradise Garden Grill Paradise Garden Grill in Disney California Adventure is now serving Gyro Fries and we couldn’t wait to try them! While we’ve previously tried the Beef Gyro Platter, this new menu item takes seemingly regular fries and sprinkles them with a little Mediterranean flavor. The Gyro Fries are topped with tomatoes, sliced pepperoncini, onion, cucumber salad, gyro meat, feta cheese, tzatziki sauce, and pita bread. This felt like an entire MEAL to us with all the toppings! However, while there was a lot going on with this snack, the dish itself wasn’t too heavy. There was just enough gyro meat to ensure the fries weren’t weighed down. The cucumber salad added smoothness to balance out the crunchy fries, and the feta cheese added a tangy twist to the sweeter flavor of the tzatziki sauce. Even if you aren’t a fan of Mediterranean food, this combination is a winner! You can grab the latest Paradise Garden Grill menu addition for $12.99 before the Annual Passholder discount. And, you can quickly snag a plate from Mobile Order if you’re really feeling hungry. Paradise Garden Grill Mobile Order Can we have some baklava after we finish the Gyro Fries too? Pretty please? Check out more Disneyland Food Reviews Here!! Heather Sievers is DisneyFoodBlog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist! Check out more of her adventures at @DininginDisney on Instagram! Have you tried the Gyro Fries yet? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Duke Caboom Debuts As the Newest Roastie Toastie in Disney California Adventure! You HAVE To See The NEW Cheesy “Corn” Dog from Disney California Adventure! Vormir, Here We Come: Review of the Soul Stone Churro in Disney California Adventure View the full article

Don’t get us wrong — we love beer flights. But how about an entire four-course meal with a different beer for each course? Paddlefish Paddlefish in Disney Springs is hosting a Beer Dinner on August 21st and we couldn’t wait to tell you about it! Beer Tap at Paddlefish A beautiful view from the 3rd deck rooftop and seasonal beer pairings from Big Top Brewing Company? That sounds like a great time to us! Paddlefish’s Rooftop Bar From 6:30 PM- 9:30 PM, you can enjoy a chicken sandwich, sea scallop, braised lamb, beef chili, pineapple upside-down cake, and MORE while you sip on some great choices of beer like Big Life Tropical Lager and Hawaiian Lion Coconut Coffee Porter! Beer Dinner ©Paddlefish on Eventbrite You can check out more information about the event and purchase tickets for $75 per person online. Also, you can read all about Paddlefish in our review here! Are you going to the Paddlefish Beer Dinner? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Review: It’s Pizza AND Burger Night With The NEW Pepperoni Pizza Burger In Disney World! REVIEW: Head to the Tropics with Disney World’s NEW Piña Colada Crème Brûlée! NEWS and Review: NEW Bubble Waffle Trophy Slides Into Disney Springs! View the full article

Bacon is one of the latest food trends sweeping its way across Walt Disney World Resort. Polynesian Village Resort Lobby We’ve seen Chocolate-Covered Bacon, Bacon-Covered Strawberries, and the Temple of Bacon throughout the World. But NOW, there’s a NEW bacon treat at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort — Pineapple and Coconut Chocolate-Covered Bacon! Pineapple Coconut Chocolate-Covered Bacon To us, this mixture of flavors seemed a bit strange…but oddly enough, we enjoyed the flavors! And it actually comes in as our second favorite new chocolate-covered bacon treat, coming in right behind the Dark Chocolate Cinnamon Pecan Bacon. Pineapple Coconut Chocolate Covered Bacon The pineapple is candied and the coconut isn’t very sweet. BUT, the bacon had a smoky flavor that we liked. There was a LOT of chocolate molding these two pieces of bacon together. And each bite tastes a little different depending on the toppings you get. Pineapple Coconut Chocolate Covered-Bacon You can find this, and lots of other bacon treats at Kona Island at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The Coconut and Pineapple Chocolate-Covered Bacon is $4 and sadly cannot be redeemed as a Disney Dining Plan snack credit. But, you now get two pieces of bacon instead of one…so that’s nice! If you’re interested in trying this new bacon treat…you might want to hurry! It’s currently listed as a seasonal offering! What do you think of this Disney trend? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: REVIEW: New Bacon Covered Strawberry (?!?) In Disney World! Disney World is BACON Us Crazy With This Trio of NEW Chocolate Covered Bacon Treats!! The Uncle Slam Frozen Cocktail is a Slam Dunk at Disney World’s Polynesian Village Resort! View the full article

Oooooooohhhh!! New merch in Disneyland? We are eternally grateful! Alien Pizza Planet We definitely missed our Alien friends in Toy Story 4, especially since we were reunited with another original character during the film. (Welcome back, Bo!) Unlike the Aliens, you don’t have to use the Claw to pick up this new sipper in Disneyland, though! The Alien Pizza Planet Sipper has flown into Tomorrowland‘s Alien Pizza Planet. The purple cups are covered in cartoon Aliens and equipped with a straw and handle for easy access to whatever planetary punch you’re drinking! You can take one home to your galaxy for $10.99 with your choice of a fountain drink or $11.99 with your choice of a frozen beverage. You can also check out our review of Alien Pizza Planet here! Now we just need some pizza for an out-of-this-world combination! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Check out our Disneyland Food Reviews Here!! Have you spotted the Alien Pizza Planet Sipper? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Everything You Need to Know about Disneyland’s Pixar Fest! PLUS a Printable Pixar Fest Food Checklist! Review: Alien Pizza Planet for Disneyland’s Pixar Fest! Review: Space Dip Pizza and Green Alien Holiday Macaron from Disneyland’s Alien Pizza Planet! View the full article

As the month comes to an end, we couldn’t forget to mention Christmas in July at the Disneyland Resort! Yes, before we know it, there will be an abundance of merry magic at Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park, and the Disney Parks Moms Panelists are here to help you plan your holiday getaway! Celebrations will take place at both parks starting November 8, 2019, through January 6, 2020. From the spectacular “it’s a small world” Holiday to “A Christmas Fantasy” parade, there is “holiday magic everywhere you turn,” according to panelist Kristin. Disney Festival of Holidays also returns on November 8, and guests will once again be able to enjoy delectable foods at the Festive Foods Marketplace located at Disney California Adventure park. We suggest you come hungry as there are a wide variety of foods, drinks and desserts offered at several locations. Also, make sure you do not miss “Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party” where you can join the Three Caballeros, puppets, and musicians in a festive celebration! While amazing holiday makeovers can be found at each park, one of the most spectacular is the enchanting, sparkling Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle. It’s a definite must-visit for our Disneyland panelists. Also at Disneyland park, don’t miss “Believe … In Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular. This is a perfect way to end your day and get ready for the holidays. And did we mention a bit of snow will fall to make the evening more magical? Panel Tip: For something a bit different, Tony recommends checking out the gingerbread display at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. This is a holiday tradition specific only to this hotel, but one not to be missed. For more great tips on preparing for your holiday visit to the Disneyland Resort, or for general Disney vacation questions, visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for an answer from one of our panelists. Panelists receive compensation for their participation on the Disney Parks Moms Panel. View the full article

Move over folks, there’s a NEW hot dog in town! Refreshment Corner And this hot dog, like the Elote Dog and many others from Refreshment Corner, was the BOMB.COM. The new Round-Up Dog ($11.99) is an all-beef footlong hot dog topped with bacon slices, BBQ sauce, fried onions, jack and cheddar cheese, and chives. It, like the other hot dogs from Refreshment Corner, is served with your choice of chips or apples. Round-Up Dog Now onto the important stuff…the FLAVOR. Honestly, we thought this hot dog was amazing! It was covered in the most delicious sweet (!!) BBQ sauce, which really packed a punch. And the flavors of the fried onions, cheese, and chives also came through in each bite! Round-Up Dog Though this hot dog was a bit messy (grab those napkins, my friends), we’d definitely eat this hot dog again! Round-Up Dog We don’t think it’ll stick around for long, so if this sounds like the meal for you then hurry over to Refreshment Corner in Disneyland to snatch it up! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Check out more Disneyland Food Reviews Here!! What’s your favorite hot dog in Disneyland? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Review: The Philly Cheesesteak Hot Dog is BACK at Refreshment Corner in Disneyland Disney Announces 2020 Disneyland Resort Grad Nite Dates PICS and REVIEW: Main “Street” Dog Now Available in Disneyland! View the full article

We could totally try to crack a joke here, but we’ll leave the corniness to this hot dog. Award Wieners We’ve tried all sorts of hot dogs recently in Disney California Adventure, like the Spicy City Dog and the Chicago-Inspired Dog. Now, we’ve got the latest creation that sounds like a twist on a fair food staple — the corn dog! The Cheesy “Corn” Dog has landed at Award Wieners! And, yes, even we were surprised with the interesting spin on a regular corn dog! Cheesy “Corn” Dog ©Disney The jalapeño-cheddar sausage sits between a toasted potato bun, topped with corn-cheese sauce, Fresno chiles, chile-lime dusted corn fritters, and cilantro leaves. Spicy, tangy, and cheesy? That sounds pretty tasty to us! You can purchase the Cheesy “Corn” Dog for $9.29 before the Annual Passholder discount. And, you can get it on Mobile Order too! Award Wieners Mobile Order ©Disney This “corn” dog sounds like it’s so packed with flavor, you might not even need ketchup or mustard! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Check out our Disneyland Food Reviews Here!! Have you tried the newest menu item at Award Wieners? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: What’s New in Disneyland Resort — Spicy Hot Dogs, Star Wars Bags, Spooky Ornaments, and MORE! Review: The Spicy City Dog Arrives in Disney California Adventure! A NEW Mac ‘n’ Cheese Has Landed in Disney California Adventure! View the full article

The city of Orlando is gearing up for the 2019 Major League Soccer All-Star Week and we’re excited to join in the fun as players head to ESPN Wide World of Sports for the All-Star Skills Challenge. With some of the week’s most exciting events slated to occur at our Complex, we’re the perfect place to be to get pumped for this year’s event. Overview of MLS All-Star Week Events at ESPN Wide World of Sports Homegrown Game Kicking things off tomorrow night at 5 p.m. will be the 2019 Major League Soccer Homegrown Game. This friendly will pit 22 of the games brightest young stars from the United States and Canada against the Chivas de Guadalajara’s Under 20 roster. Click here to see who all will be playing in the game. 2019 MLS All-Star Skills Challenge Come see some of your favorite players as they test their athletic abilities in a series of unique events during the 2019 MLS All-Star Skills Challenge! Watch MLS icons Wayne Rooney, Carlos Vela, and Jonathan dos Santos join Orlando City Soccer Club favorites and stars from Atlético Madrid in competitions to test their accuracy, goal-scoring creativity, and passing ability in thrilling showdowns. Tickets for the combined experiences can be purchased by visiting MLS.com. Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Soccer Match The excitement continues through the next morning with the Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Showcase, an event the Special Olympics partners with Major League Soccer to host in in conjunction with the MLS All-Star Week. Athletes and partners from all across North America representing MLS clubs will come together to compete in an 11 v. 11 match. This event, beginning at 10 a.m. on Field 15, is free and open to the public. Tips for Visiting ESPN Wide World of Sports Food & Beverage Need a game time snack? Stop by our food trucks for some delicious grab-and-go style food and beverages. Guest Information During the 2019 MLS All-Star Week Events at the Complex, Guests must keep the following in mind: Bags smaller than 14”x14”x6” are allowed. Large purses/bags, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, luggage of any kind, computer/laptop bags, camera bags or any bag larger than the permissible size are not allowed. Security and bag checks will be present at the Complex entrance. For additional information including parking and transportation to the Complex, along with Complex rules and prohibited items, please visit our Guest Information tab on ESPNWWOS.com. Want to attend the 2019 MLS All-Star Game at the Exploria Stadium on July 31? Visit here to purchase tickets. For additional All-Star Week Event information, please visit here. View the full article

Recently, actor, singer and television personality Jaime Camil and his family experienced a day full of exciting emotions throughout the Disneyland Resort. Jaime, his wife, Heidi Balvanera, daughter, Elena, and son, Jaime III, even took a spin around Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind at Disney California Adventure park. Check out this capture of their joyous flight! Inspired by the hit Disney and Pixar film “Inside Out,” Emotional Whirlwind takes you a sense-ational spin while aboard one of eight Memory Movers. Aboard, you can help Riley’s Emotions—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Disgust and Fear—sort through memories being collected. How cute is that? Have you helped Riley’s emotions on Emotional Whirlwind Inside Out? View the full article

Regular sandwiches are pretty great and all, but ice cream sandwiches? We could eat them for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. Disney World has been keeping hush-hush about the Annual Passholder Secret Treat available as a part of Epcot’s V.I.Passholder perks this summer. Today, we discovered that the treat at Sunshine Seasons is an ice cream cookie sandwich and we had to try it for ourselves! Vanilla bean gelato is covered in miniature crispy pearls and layered between two sugar cookies, which are garnished with chocolate drizzle. Let’s just take a moment to appreciate the aesthetic of this ice cream sandwich. The drizzle is beautifully decorated on top of the cookie, and the pearls are evenly dispersed around the entirety of the gelato. We were excited to try this dessert just from looking at it! After trying to cut into the ice cream sandwich, we found that the cookie is a bit too hard for that. We decided to bite into it, even though it was slightly difficult with the gelato stacked so high. The sugar cookies are sturdy enough to hold the gelato, yet are still chewy in the middle. While the cookie flavor is simple, it blends well with the creamy and light vanilla bean taste from the gelato. The crispy pearls add a nice texture to the smooth ice cream, tying the treat together. Although the overall flavor of the Annual Passholder Secret Treat was somewhat straightforward and uncomplicated, it was still sweet and refreshing! If you’re an Annual Passholder looking for a light, tasty dessert, make sure to pick up the secret menu item at Sunshine Seasons for $4.39. After you let the Cast Members at the counter know you’d like the ice cream sandwich, they will check your Annual Pass and ID upon purchase. A Cast Member we spoke to wasn’t sure if the dessert was going to be eligible for a Disney Dining Plan snack credit, but go ahead and ask when you’re there! We only wish our homemade desserts looked as pretty as this one! Are you planning to try the Annual Passholder Secret Treat? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: There’s a SUPER SECRET Menu Item Coming To Epcot Soon!! Take Advantage of Epcot’s V.I.Passholder Perks This Summer! Review: Vegan Cupcake from Epcot’s Sunshine Seasons! View the full article

Hey, guys! We’re back with another DFB Video and today we’re exploring the BEST Disney restaurants you’ve NEVER heard of. Baseline Taphouse Now, maybe you have heard of these spots thanks to your Disney planning research. But, it’s quite possible that you have never sat down for a meal at one of these locations. And honestly, we think they deserve more recognition!! We’re talkin’ Grand Floridian Café, Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen, BaseLine Tap House, and more! Find out why we think these spots deserve more love and what you can eat when dining at these restaurants 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: Which Disney restaurant you’d like to check out on your next Disney vacation! Related posts: DFB Video: Best of the Fest at the Disney World AND Disneyland Festivals DFB Video: Disney Money-Saving Tips That Can BACKFIRE! DFB Video: Introducing Disney’s Newest Restaurants View the full article

Today we’re kicking off another week on the Disney Parks Blog with a Disney Doodle by artist Ashley Taylor that features one of Ashley’s personal favorite Disney characters – Megara from “Hercules.” Here, she’s depicted Megara taking a spin on Prince Charming Regal Carrousel in Fantasyland at Magic Kingdom Park. Why that attraction? “Megara is afraid of heights, so it’s easy to imagine her enjoying a stable, grounded ride like the carousel!” Ashley said. View the full article

Hands down, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror is my favorite Disney ride. Why, you ask? Because, for some reason, I love getting sweaty palms and having my stomach jump to my throat. Artist, Candy Fields, shares my love for this ride. She is ecstatic to design a special wallpaper commemorating the Tower’s 25th anniversary. We invite you to enjoy this wallpaper, if you dare! Download this brand-new wallpaper for your desktop or mobile device now. Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. Want to check out other designs? Visit our complete gallery of wallpapers View the full article