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The Walt Disney Company is bringing a seventh theme park to life in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. The park will operate in collaboration with Miral, “Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences.” ©Disney Disneyland Abu Dhabi will be fully developed and built by Miral, with Disney Imagineers leading creative design and operational oversight. Disney’s decision has been met with sharp criticism and logistical questions about how the theme park will operate on Yas Island, but that hasn’t stopped CEO Bob Iger from sharing photos from his most recent visit to the site of the future theme park. Disney CEO Bob Iger recently shared photos of his most recent trip to the future home of Disneyland Abu Dhabi on Yas Island. He captioned the post, “Walking the site of what will one day be Disneyland Abu Dhabi! Lots of work ahead, but all very exciting!” via @robertiger on Instagram The waterfront resort was announced in May 2025 and has been met with criticism over the choice to bring a Disney park to a country with such strict laws as the United Arab Emirates. This new Disney resort will be located on Yas Island, a spot known for entertainment and tourism. It is expected to connect travelers from the Middle East and Africa, India, Asia, Europe, and more. According to Disney, the theme park “will combine Disney’s iconic stories, characters and attractions with Abu Dhabi’s vibrant culture, stunning shorelines, and breathtaking architecture.” via @robertiger on Instagram Disney pointed out that the UAE is located within a four-hour flight of one-third of the world’s population, “making it a significant gateway for tourism.”According to Travel and Tour World, India is one of the largest sources of tourism for the UAE. ©Miral Josh D’Amaro, Chairman, Disney Experiences, said, “Our resort in Abu Dhabi will be the most advanced and interactive destination in our portfolio. The location of our park is incredibly unique – anchored by a beautiful waterfront, which will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways. This project will reach guests in a whole new part of the world, welcoming more families to experience Disney than ever before. Ultimately, it will be a celebration of what’s possible when creativity and progress come together.” It was later confirmed that the theme park will be located entirely indoors — a first for Disney. ©Miral Disneyland Abu Dhabi will feature: Signature Disney entertainment; Themed accommodations; Unique dining and retail experiences; Storytelling in a way that celebrates both the heritage of Disney and the futuristic and cultural essence of Abu Dhabi ©Disney Disney hasn’t revealed too many details about the new park, but in an interview with CNBC, Iger gave some insight into an expected timeline, sharing: “We’re not pinning down a date yet. It typically takes us between 18 months and two years to design and fully develop, and approximately five years to build, but we’re not making any commitments right now.” If that is the timeline for building the new park, it seems like it could be opening around 2032, give or take. ©Disney However, the response to the announcement has been mixed. While some fans are excited — especially those living near the new park — others are concerned about Disney partnering with a government that seems to go against what Disney has previously maintained as a goal: inclusivity. Iger’s recent comments on building a Disney park in Abu Dhabi are a shift from past comments he made at a Council on Foreign Relations event in 2018, when he shared that the Saudi crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, made an “impassioned plea” for Disney to build a theme park in his kingdom, according to the New York Times. Iger said, “I explained when we make decisions like this, we consider cultural issues, economic issues, and political issues,” not electing to give further details on the “very frank” discussion. He added that the region had “not been at the top of our list in terms of markets that we would open up in.” ©Disney It’s clear that something has changed, as Iger’s recent Instagram comments indicate he’s excited about the project. One thing is for sure: we’ll be on the lookout for more updates about Disneyland Abu Dhabi and beyond. In the meantime, stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more. Learn more about Disneyland Abu Dhabi below: “All very exciting!” Disney CEO Bob Iger Shares Disneyland Abu Dhabi UpdateDisney Adults Are Obsessing Over These NEW Castle DetailsCONFIRMED: Disneyland Abu Dhabi Will Be an Indoor Theme Park“Disney Has Become a Playground for the Rich.” Fans Have Thoughts About Disney’s Big AnnouncementNEWS: Disney Executives Comment on Scale of New Abu Dhabi Resort: “More Ambitious.” Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW When are you planning your next Disney trip? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article
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Fun Disney Things You’ll Want to Buy Immediately
Disney4me posted a topic in Disney Food/Restaurants
If you love Disney, you know the fun doesn’t have to stop when you leave the parks. Mickey Mouse From everyday accessories to home finds and fun gifts, there are so many Disney-inspired items that instantly add a little bit of that Disney magic to your everyday. This roundup features fun Disney things you’ll probably want to buy immediately. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for something a fellow Disney fan will love, these picks are easy to fall for. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Disney Foodies, this find is for you! ©Amazon If you’re a Disney foodie like us, this Mickey Waffle PopSockets MagSafe phone grip is a must. It magnetically attaches to MagSafe cases, so it’s secure but still removable, and the built-in kickstand is perfect for FaceTime, watching videos, or propping your phone up at your desk. The Mickey waffle design is low-key but instantly recognizable to Disney fans. View on Amazon These Disney Parks prints are made for Disney adults! ©Amazon These Disney travel posters turn your favorite Disney parks into gallery-worthy wall art. This set of eight 8×10″ prints includes classic designs like Magic Kingdom and EOCOT, plus themed map artwork that feels nostalgic. They’re unframed, so you can match your own frames to your space and are perfect for a gallery wall in a home office, nursery, or living room. We love the colors and the unique design of each one. View on Amazon We love this Disney Tote Bag! ©Amazon This Disney Stamps Tote Bag is perfect for both the parks and just running errands around town. We love the vintage feel of the bag with the icons from Disney parks around the world. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, making it a great go-to bag for travel, school, or grocery runs. It’s basically anything you’d normally toss in a reusable tote, but with a bit more Disney personality! View on Amazon Or, you can grab these cozy Mickey slippers! ©Amazon These Disney slippers are exactly the kind of comfy you’ll look forward to slipping into after a long day. They are plush, have a memory foam cushion, and are fur-lined. They feel like walking on a cloud. We love neutral colors and small icons of Mickey. We could see these being great for vacations and at home! View on Amazon Don’t forget to grab this wickedly awesome spa headband! ©Amazon Make your skincare (and pre-park beauty routine) feel a little more magical with this Disney Spa Headband featuring a Maleficent design. This headband is soft, plush, and adjustable. It keeps hair out of your face while you wash, mask, or apply makeup with no slipping, tugging, or flyaways. It’s functional enough for everyday use and fun enough to bring a smile to your morning routine. View on Amazon Get chilly with this Stitch slushy maker! ©Amazon Cool down with a little help from Stitch! This Disney Stitch Slushy Maker Cup isn’t just adorable, but it lets you make frozen slushies, smoothies, milkshakes, and more right at home without a machine. Just freeze the cup, pour in your favorite drink, swirl, and you’ve got a frosty treat that’s perfect for hot summer days, movie nights, or hangouts. The Stitch design is adorable, and any fan of the film will love this! View on Amazon And finally, this kid’s camera would be perfect for vacations! ©Amazon Turn every moment into a memory with this Mickey Mouse Mini Kids Toy Digital Camera & Video Camcorder. This camera has a 12MP sensor, selfie lens, 20+ filters, and a 1.55″ screen. The included 32GB card gives you room for loads of photos and videos, and the handmade strap makes it easy to take it anywhere. If you’re looking for a gift that’s both practical and Disney, this camera turns everyday moments into keepsakes you’ll actually want to save. View on Amazon We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article -
Disney World Files NEW Permits for Hotel Changes
Disney4me posted a topic in Disney Food/Restaurants
Recently, Disney has announced new lands, attractions, and entertainment headed to the theme parks, new ships coming to the Disney Cruise Line, and so much more. But, what about those projects that Disney hasn’t exactly announced yet? Animal Kingdom Lodge Keeping up with the latest construction permits Disney World files can be a great way to find out just what is going on around the parks and hotels, and we recently spotted some you might want to know about at Disney World hotels! We’re always on the hunt for the latest construction permits filed by Disney to get an idea of what sort of changes might be coming to the parks, and we recently spotted some new hotel permits that could point to future projects, starting over at Animal Kingdom Lodge. Animal Kingdom Lodge A new permit was filed for general construction at an address that matches this popular resort. General construction is pretty vague, so this work could be for a multitude of different projects. The contractor listed on the permit is Boyer Building Corporation, which has worked with Disney in the past — including a complete renovation of the Big Blue Pool at the Art of Animation Resort. Animal Kingdom Lodge This coincides with planned maintenance going on at Animal Kingdom Lodge, which we previously reported on. Through May 2026, rooms at Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge will undergo refurbishment, followed by refurbishment work at Jambo House from May 2026 through January 2027. During these times, hotel guests may see or hear construction work in the area. Most amenities will remain available throughout the refurbishment. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Hotel Room We also spotted a few new permits for the Alligator Bayou section of Port Orleans Riverside. These permits don’t list any specific description, but the contractor listed is Colwill Engineering Electrical, Inc., so it’s likely that these are for electrical work. Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside Disney has been working on refurbishing rooms at this resort, so it’s likely these new permits are a continuation of that work. From now through August 2027, rooms at Port Orleans Riverside will undergo refurbishment throughout different parts of the hotel. During this time, hotel guests may see or hear construction work in the area. Disney’s Port Orleans – Riverside In the meantime, we’ll be on the hunt for new updates from Disney World and more — so stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest news! Check out more recently filed Disney World permits below! Disney World Files NEW Permits for Hotel ChangesDisney World Files 4 Permits for Upcoming ExpansionsCONFIRMED: Changes to Hit 2 Disney World Hotels and a Magic Kingdom StoreNEW Permits Hint At MORE Disney World Hotel ChangesDisney Just Dropped 3 Announcements, and One Is Seriously Bittersweet Planning a Trip to Disney World? We’ve Got Everything You Need to Know The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Disney World Vacation A Month-by-Month Guide to Planning Your Disney World Trip Tips, Hints, Lists, and Videos for Planning the BEST Disney World Trip Learn About the Disney Park Pass System The Ultimate Disney World Packing List Everything You Need to Know About Lightning Lanes Insider SECRETS for Your First Trip to Disney World A Complete Look at the Current Disney Discounts and Deals The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Join the DFB Newsletter to Get All the Latest Disney News Delivered Right to Your Inbox! Click Here to Subscribe When are you heading to Disney World next? Tell us in the comments. View the full article -
One of Disney World’s coziest lounges is taking a short break. Disney’s Yacht Club If you’ve spent anytime around us here at DFB, you KNOW we’re big fans of winding down a long day at Disney World with a trip to a lounge. Disney recently announced a closure happening soon that will keep us from visiting one of our favorite hidden gems around the EPCOT hotels. Here’s what we know so far about this closure, how long you can expect it to be, and where you can grab your drinks and small bites in the meantime! If Crew’s Cup Lounge is one of your favorite cozy spots around EPCOT, I’ve got some bittersweet news to share. Disney has officially announced that Crew’s Cup Lounge at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort will close beginning February 23rd, with a reopening expected in May as part of a refurbishment project. Inside the lounge! The good news here, though, is that this is a temporary closure — not a permanent goodbye. While Disney hasn’t released details yet about what changes or upgrades are coming, refurbishments usually mean work among things like refreshed interiors, updated finishes, and possibly some menu or layout tweaks. In other words, it’s very likely this cozy little slice of heaven will come back looking better than ever! New food! During the closure period, hotel guests staying at or visiting the Yacht Club Resort may notice daytime construction activity, including visible work areas or noise, while the refurbishment is underway. So, if you’re planning a stay at the Yacht Club this spring and were hoping to unwind at Crew’s Cup in the evenings, it’s definitely something to keep in mind. Crew’s Cup Signature Old Fashioned For those who love this lounge for its laid-back pub vibe, craft beer selection, and easy access to EPCOT’s back entrance, this closure is a little sad, buuuuut thankfully it’ll only last a few months! The timing means that by early summer, Crew’s Cup should be back in action just in time for peak travel season and EPCOT festival crowds. Crew’s Cup Lounge If you’re visiting between late February and May, don’t worry — there are still plenty of great alternatives nearby, like Ale & Compass Lounge (also at Yacht Club), AbracadaBar at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Resort, or the Rose & Crown Pub inside EPCOT. And once Crew’s Cup reopens, it’ll be the perfect excuse to plan a return visit and see what’s new. I’ll be keeping an eye out for updates as Disney releases more details about the refurbishment, and I’ll share them as soon as we know what changes are coming. In the meantime, stay tuned right here at DFB so you don’t miss an update. The 3 NEW Hotel Closures That Hit Disney World This Week Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have your Disney World trip plans ever had to be adjusted for refurbishments and closures? Tell us all about it in the comments below! View the full article
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As I’m shopping on DisneyStore.com or browsing the shelves at Disney Parks, I often find myself wondering how my favorite Disney characters make the magical journey from screen to doll form. From interactive playtime companions to high-fashion collectibles, Disney dolls are thoughtfully designed to capture the spirit, style, and storytelling details that fans know and love. I’m always excited to see a new limited-edition doll hit the shelves, because they reimagine some of the most beloved Disney characters with contemporary flair and fantastical themes. Every element is carefully considered during the conceptualization and design stages, inviting dedicated collectors and casual admirers alike to appreciate the artistry of even the smallest details. Keep coming back here for the latest on all things limited-edition Disney dolls. I’ll be updating as soon as we get first-look images, behind-the-scenes insights, and exclusive interviews with the creative teams behind these collectibles. January 26, 2026: Cruella de Vil The newest doll coming to DisneyStore.com today (January 26) is none other than Cruella de Vil, the fearsome and fashionable villain from Disney’s 101 Dalmatians. Cruella is instantly recognizable thanks to her black-and-white color palette with pops of rich red, devilish and dramatic energy, and couture-inspired attire. I was eager to learn more about how this doll balances honoring iconic interpretations of the character while still creating something new for collectors, so I spoke with J. Fuchs, Design Manager, Dolls & Souvenirs. J helped to bring Cruella to life and provided some fascinating insights into the design process for this new doll. When asked about which versions of the character most influenced the doll knowing Cruella has appeared onscreen across animation and live action, as well as throughout Disney Parks, J shared that the goal was to be rooted in the classic animated character with elements that felt more modern. “The coat, face, and overall color scheme are pure classic Cruella,” said J, “with nods to the live action film in the more modern hairstyle, mixed metal jewelry, and dramatic design of the dress.” J and the team also knew that Cruella’s bold attitude and iconic fashion sense needed to be translated into physical details like fabric selection and silhouette. Her larger-than-life fur coat, scarlet gloves and lips, and a sleek black dress are staple elements of her look, with contemporary components such as the contrasting snake print and faux leather materials, the asymmetrical cut of her attire, and glossy pleather over-the-knee boots. J even mentioned that the coat neckline, which has a medallion with “CDV” etched on, is detachable for multiple customizable looks. I was most curious to ask J about the little things that fans should be most excited about when they get their hands on Cruella, knowing that the doll gives collectors an opportunity to take in all the thoughtful details and intricacies up close. “The fun for her is definitely in all the detailed jewelry and unusual fabrics. It’s not often I get to work with different textures like this – from the fuzziest to the sleekest we can find, to the ultra-shimmer fun of the coat lining, so that was the most exciting part of her outfit for me,” J explained. “The soft matte, snake-y suede on her dress is probably my all-time favorite material I’ve gotten to incorporate in an outfit!” The Cruella doll is available to shop now on DisneyStore.com. And keep your eyes right here on the Disney Parks Blog for future doll reveals! As we look to the horizon, there seems to be a Wayfinder on the way… Viktor&Rolf x Disney Reveal Collectible Cinderella Doll READ MORE 2026 Valentine’s Day Gifts for Disney Lovers READ MORE Mattel Unveils New Collectible Disney Ursula Doll READ MORE The post Limited-Edition Disney Dolls: Inside the Details and Design Process appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article
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EPCOT is one of the most beloved theme parks at Disney World, but it’s no secret that it can feel overwhelmingly crowded during peak times of the year, and 2026 will be no different. EPCOT’s Spaceship Earth With EPCOT hosting four major festivals throughout the year, it draws Disney guests and foodies. Navigating World Showcase can sometimes feel like a slow shuffle rather than a stroll during these festivals. The good news? If you time your visit just right, EPCOT can feel surprisingly calm. If lighter crowds, easier dining reservations, and more room to explore are high on your priority list, here are four weeks in 2026 when EPCOT is typically much quieter and why they’re worth considering. Last Week of February The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts ends this year on February 23rd. Once it does end, crowds tend to drop off noticeably. With no festival booths or entertainment for a short window, many casual visitors shift their plans elsewhere. This creates a rare “in-between” period where EPCOT feels more relaxed, lines are shorter, and World Showcase is easier to navigate. DFB Tip: This is a great time to focus on attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, which are often busier during festival weeks. 2026 EPCOT Festival of the Arts Second Week of March While the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival kicks off March 4th this year, the second week of the festival is often slower than you’d expect. Spring break crowds haven’t fully arrived yet, and many guests delay their trips until later in the month. You still get all the benefits of the Flower & Garden festival with gorgeous topiaries, delicious food, and seasonal merchandise, all without the peak congestion. DFB Tip: Visit World Showcase earlier in the day for the best photo opportunities and shorter lines before locals arrive in the evening to grab dinner. 2025 Flower and Garden Festival First Week of June Early June often brings fewer crowds to EPCOT. The Flower and Garden festival ends June 1st, which means locals are likely taking a break from the park. Many families are also waiting for school to end, which keeps overall attendance lower. The weather is warmer, but crowds are manageable, making this an ideal time to explore pavilions at a leisurely pace. DFB Tip: Schedule indoor attractions and dining reservations during the hottest part of the afternoon and save outdoor activities for mornings and evenings. EPCOT crowds The Week Before Thanksgiving While we don’t have the exact dates for EPCOT’s International Food and Wine Festival for this year, it typically ends the week before Thanksgiving. The week before the holiday is also a slower week as it falls between Veterans’ Day crowds and Thanksgiving. This makes it one of the best times to enjoy Food & Wine booths with shorter lines and easier seating. DFB Tip: Weekdays are especially calm during this period, which is perfect for snack-focused EPCOT days without the usual festival chaos. Christmas decorations in EPCOT If you’re looking to experience EPCOT with fewer crowds and less stress, these four weeks in 2026 are some of your best bets. Timing your trip around festival transitions can make a huge difference in how enjoyable your day feels. For more crowd calendars, festival updates, and insider planning tips, be sure to keep following DisneyFoodBlog because we’re always watching the trends so you don’t have to. The Best Restaurants at Disney World in 2026 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Would you rather visit EPCOT during a festival or during downtime? Tell us in the comments below! View the full article
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Frozen Ever After in EPCOT is officially closed for refurbishment! This popular attraction is undergoing a refurbishment and is expected to reopen in February 2026, although Disney has not announced a specific reopening date yet. Of course, we will keep an eye out and let you know when a date is announced! Frozen Ever After is closed! The refurbishment will bring a long-awaited update to the ride’s audio-animatronics! This EPCOT attraction first opened in 2016, featuring highly advanced animatronics that brought Elsa, Anna, and Kristoff to life. They were the first animtronics to be entirely powered by electric motors and manufactured using 3D printing techniques. However, the faces were projected using animation, and while some say it stays true to the original animation, others thought it looked odd. Now, 10 years later, technology has advanced, and Disney has introduced new animatronics, including Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff, on Frozen rides at Hong Kong and Tokyo. The new technology combines the smooth movements of the animations with sculpted faces that better capture the characters. Back in 2025, Disney announced that this new technology would also be coming to Frozen Ever After in EPCOT, and now the time has come! When this ride reopens, Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff will be looking a bit different, and we are excited to see their new looks. Frozen Ever After The ride officially closed today, January 26th, and will reopen in February 2026 with the new animatronics. We stopped by this morning to see what it looks like. There is a sign out front, and the large, wooden doors at the entrance to the attraction are closed. Frozen Ever After is temporarily closed There were also quite a few Cast Members standing out front. There was also a Connect 4 game set up near the attraction’s entrance. You will have to wait a bit to ride Frozen Ever After again The Fjording store at the exit of Frozen Ever After is listed as closed on the Disney World website, but it was still open when we checked out of Frozen Ever After. And since the ride isn’t open, it was EMPTY while we were there. So, it is definitely a good time to get some shopping in at The Fjording with fewer people! The store will still open, but the exit from the attraction has been blocked. The Fjording is open, but the exit is blocked off We will be keeping a close eye and ear out for news about an exact reopening date for Frozen Ever After. In the meantime, we are in the parks every single day and always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned to DFB for more Disney tips, tricks, news, and reviews! The Hidden Details You NEED To Look For at the 2026 EPCOT Festival of the Arts Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What is your favorite attraction in EPCOT? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! View the full article
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The secret is OUT! (Or rather, TONS of secrets are out!!) Let’s head to the buffet! We’re EXPOSING the BEST Disney World restaurant secrets that we’ve gathered over time to make sure the next time YOU eat around the parks will be your best and most delicious yet YET. Check out our video below: 50 Disney World Restaurant Secrets Only The Pros Know Are you a DFB Video subscriber? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to our channel and catch up on ALL of our latest episodes! And stay tuned for more theme park news! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of this video? Tell us in the comments. View the full article
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It’s certainly no secret that we love Disney food here at DFB — we are the Disney FOOD Blog, after all. Cathy’s Cookies is now open! And we especially love cookies! So, when we found out that a brand-new spot to get cookies had opened at Downtown Disney, you know we had to check it out. Oh, and did we mention this place has literal BUCKETS of cookies?! Come with us to check out the newly opened Cathy’s Cookies! Cathy’s Cookies is a brand-new snack spot in Downtown Disney that serves — you guessed it — cookies! Chocolate chip cookies, in particular. You can get a sleeve of chocolate chip cookies for $18, or a whole bucket of chocolate chip cookies for $28 — both options offer plenty of cookies to share (or eat them all yourself, we don’t judge!). You can also buy a bucket of cookie dough for $25. Cathy’s Cookies We opted for the bucket of cookies for $28, of course, you know — for science. We’re happy to report that these are incredible — they’re dangerously good. The cookies are warm, gooey, and packed with sweet brown sugar flavor and rich chocolate chips in every bite. Bucket of Cookies! If you’ve had the cookies from Harbour Galley before, think of these as their thinner, slightly crisp-edged cousin — same craveable flavor, just a different texture. This is the perfect treat to bring back to your hotel, take home, or share with your group… though fair warning, sharing may be the hardest part! SO warm and chewy! More cookies at Disney is always a plus if you ask us, and a whole BUCKET FULL?! Catch us at Cathy’s Cookies at Downtown Disney! We’ll be on the lookout for even more snack news from Disneyland and beyond, but in the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more! REVIEW: Don’t Miss These HIDDEN Snacks at the 2026 Lunar New Year at Disneyland Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be trying the new Cathy’s Cookies at Downtown Disney? Let us know in the comments below. View the full article
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Winter weather strikes again…and your Orlando flight might be caught in it. Airplane A wave of cold weather across the U.S. is causing major travel disruptions, and Orlando International Airport is feeling the effects in a big way. With dozens of delays and over a hundred cancellations already reported today, travelers heading to Disney World and back home are facing unexpected changes to their plans. Here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and what you should do if you’re traveling right now! If you’re traveling to or from Orlando this week, there’s a good chance you’ve already felt the ripple effects of the recent cold weather sweeping across the country. While Central Florida itself isn’t dealing with snow or ice, widespread winter storms in other parts of the U.S. are creating a domino effect that’s seriously impacting flights in and out of Orlando International Airport (MCO). Let’s take a flight! As of 9 AM EST, MCO has already reported 80 flight delays and a staggering 124 cancellations, according to the latest airport data. And because so many flights into Orlando originate from colder regions currently experiencing winter weather, disruptions in those cities are directly affecting travelers headed to Disney World, Universal, and beyond. Even if the skies over Florida look perfectly clear, aircraft and crew availability issues elsewhere can still throw schedules completely off. By 10 AM EST, the delay numbers climbed significantly to 121 flight delays, and we only expect this number to keep rising throughout the day. ©MCO For vacationers, this can mean missed connections, delayed arrivals, or, in some cases, having flights canceled altogether. It’s especially stressful for families arriving for long-planned theme park trips or travelers trying to head home after a magical getaway. Unfortunately, winter travel is one of the most unpredictable seasons of the year, and when weather systems stretch across multiple states, even major hubs like Orlando aren’t immune. Orlando International Airport If you’re flying this week, it’s more important than ever to monitor your airline’s app, sign up for real-time flight alerts, build extra buffer time into your travel plans, and even have an alternative plan of travel lined up if possible. Travelers should also consider booking earlier flights in the day (which are less likely to be delayed), packing essentials in carry-on bags, and keeping flexible dining or park plans in case arrival times shift. MCO Airport While flight delays and cancellations are never fun, staying informed and prepared can make a huge difference. Keep an eye on current airport conditions, check your airline’s rebooking policies, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help adjusting travel plans if needed. With a little flexibility and patience, you can still keep your trip on track, even when winter weather throws a curveball into your vacation plans. We’re constantly monitoring travel trends, weather conditions, and more to help you travel for your next Disney trip safely and efficiently! Be sure to stay tuned with us right here at DFB so you don’t miss a thing. A HUGE Southwest Airlines Change Starts Tomorrow Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have your travel plans ever been affected by weather and cancellations? Tell us all about your experience in the comments below! View the full article
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A HUGE Southwest Airlines Change Starts Tomorrow
Disney4me posted a topic in Disney Food/Restaurants
Tomorrow marks the end of an era for Southwest Airlines as we know it. Flying to our next adventure! If you’ve been putting off learning about Southwest’s new seating policies, your time is officially up. Starting January 27th (yes, tomorrow), the airline is completely overhauling how you board and sit on their planes. If you’re flying Southwest anytime soon, here’s everything you need to know before you head to the airport. Today is the Last Day for Boarding Numbers Let’s get straight to the point: as of tomorrow, Southwest’s open seating system is gone. No more boarding numbers, no more racing to grab your favorite seat, no more freedom to sit wherever you want once you’re on the plane. Southwest Airlines at John Wayne International Airport Instead, you’ll be assigned a specific seat when you book, just like you would on Delta, United, American, or any other airline. The days of checking in exactly 24 hours before your flight to get a good boarding number?! Over. For those of us who loved the old Southwest system, tomorrow is a pretty sad day. But it’s happening whether we like it or not. Here’s How the New Seating Works Southwest has split their planes into three different seating categories, and your experience depends entirely on which one you choose (and how much you pay). ©Southwest Extra Legroom is the top tier. These seats offer additional legroom in spots like exit rows and the forward cabin. Passengers in this category board first in Groups 1 and 2. Of course, these are the most expensive seats available. Preferred Seats are the middle option. You’ll get standard legroom in the forward and middle parts of the cabin. This group boards in Groups 3 through 5, putting you somewhere in the middle of the boarding process. These seats cost less than Extra Legroom but more than Standard. Standard Seats are the budget-friendly choice, but you get what you pay for. These are whatever seats remain after Extra Legroom and Preferred passengers make their selections. Expect middle and rear cabin seats, with plenty of middle seats thrown in. This group boards last in Groups 6 through 8. Boarding Looks Different Starting Tomorrow The boarding process is getting a complete makeover. Instead of lining up in numerical order based on your boarding number, Southwest will call boarding groups like every other airline does. Your boarding group will be printed right on your boarding pass. Goodbye boarding numbers If you paid for Extra Legroom or a Preferred Seat, you’ll get an earlier boarding group. If you went with Standard, you’re boarding with the last groups. The upside? Boarding might feel a little less stressful since you don’t need to find your exact numerical spot in line. The downside? You’re stuck with your assigned seat no matter when you board. Don’t Forget About Status and Credit Card Benefits If you have elite status with Southwest or carry one of their credit cards, make sure you’re taking advantage of your perks under the new system. A-List Preferred members get free Extra Legroom seats, while A-List members can select a free Preferred Seat. These perks can save you a decent chunk of change if you’re flying regularly. Southwest credit card holders still get one free checked bag, which is huge since free checked bags are no longer available to regular passengers. Credit card holders are also automatically placed in boarding group 5, guaranteeing you won’t be stuck in the very last boarding group. Traveling soon? New Rules for Passengers Needing Additional Space Tomorrow also brings changes to Southwest’s policy for passengers who need more than one seat. Under the old rules, these passengers didn’t have to purchase a second seat in advance, and Southwest would provide extra seats when possible with refunds available after the flight. ©Southwest Airlines Starting tomorrow, passengers requiring additional space must purchase an extra seat and pay any applicable seat fees before they can board. Refunds are still an option after you travel, but only under specific conditions: both seats must be in the same fare class, you need to request the refund within 90 days, and the plane must have had at least one open seat available. Even if the flight was completely full, you might still qualify for a refund if some empty seats were being held for off-duty airline employees. What This All Means If you’ve flown on literally any other major airline in the past decade, Southwest’s new system will feel totally familiar. They’ve basically adopted the same seating and boarding policies that their competitors have used for years. Is it disappointing for those of us who loved Southwest’s unique approach? Sure. But starting tomorrow, Southwest is just another airline with assigned seats and tiered boarding groups. Southwest at MCO Make sure you understand these changes before your next flight, especially if you’re flying Southwest tomorrow or anytime in the near future. The last thing you want is to show up at the airport expecting the old system and getting hit with a completely different experience. Stay tuned to DFB for more travel updates! “Hate the New Changes.” Fans Are NOT Ready for This HUGE Southwest Airlines Change Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you sad to see Southwest’s open seating go? Let us know in the comments! View the full article -
Cold weather is coming to Disney World, according to News 6. While much of the country has been dealing with a strong winter storm bringing snow, sleet, ice, and frigid temperatures, Central Florida reached near-record highs on Sunday. However, the winter storm is sweeping into Central Florida overnight, bringing cold weather to Disney World starting the evening of January 26th. ©News 6 The cold weather will remain in the area, bringing cold weather advisories and freeze warnings. According to the forecast, cold temperatures will persist at Disney World for several days. On Tuesday morning, around 3 AM, the feels-like temperature in Orlando will be 31 degrees. On Sunday, February 1st, the low temperature is currently 28 degrees with a high of 48 degrees. While Florida is known as the Sunshine State, and most people probably think of warm weather when thinking about Florida, cool weather does happen! It is always important to check the weather before you head to Disney World and pack layers if needed, so you are prepared. Over the next few days, evening temperatures will be quite chilly, and you will want a jacket if you plan to stay for the nighttime show or get a last ride in as the park closes. Also, be prepared for cool temperatures in the morning (and even throughout the whole day some days!). ©News 6 If you are headed to Disney World soon, make sure you are prepared for the cooler weather! Make sure you have a jacket, and we also recommend packing layers for days when it gets warmer in the afternoons. That way, you can take a layer or two off to stay comfortable, then add them back as the sun goes down and temperatures begin to drop again. Over the next 10 days, according to The Weather Channel, the highest temperature currently forecasted is on February 4th at 70 degrees. Most days, the high temperature will be in the low to high 60s, but a few days will see a high of 48 to 56 degrees, with lows reaching 28 degrees. You will want a jacket this week! We are always keeping an eye out for news that might impact your Disney vacation, so stay tuned to DFB for more! I Finally Tried This Viral Hotel Item — And It’s a Game Changer in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you headed to Disney World this week? Let us know in the comments! View the full article
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Disney fans might want to get over to Amazon RIGHT NOW! Cinderella Castle The massive e-tailer has some of our favorite Disney accessories on sale for up to 55% off! If you want to take advantage of this sale, act quickly, as these items are moving fast! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Minnie & Daisy Comfy Crocs ©Amazon This fluffy take on the iconic sandal features colorful designs of Minnie and Daisy, two closure straps, and faux fur lining and insoles. View HERE — 60% OFF Today Lilo and Stitch, Winnie The Pooh, and Mickey and Minnie Coloring Book Bundle ©Amazon This bundle includes a Lilo and Stitch Coloring Activity Book, a Winnie the Pooh Coloring Activity Book, a Mickey Mouse Coloring Book, 2 sheets of 100 Stitch and Mickey stickers, and a Mickey Pop Fidget keyring toy. SHOP HERE — 50% OFF Beauty and the Beast Rose Cosmetic Bag ©Amazon This Bioworld makeup bag features an elegant maroon color, stone embellishments, and gold metallic designs on the front, and “high-quality” polyurethane construction to “ensure long-lasting color quality and durability.” SHOP HERE — 55% OFF If any of these items — and their massive discounts — suit your fancy, be sure to head over to Amazon before they sell out! Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney merchandise finds! View the full article
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We love to see that vintage-inspired Disney merch is having a moment, and it’s easy to see why. ©Disney From retro tees featuring classic characters to collectible home pieces that showcase park history, these pieces bring a sense of nostalgia without feeling over the top. These retro-style pieces will be a great addition to your home! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Get this retro Star Wars shirt here! ©Amazon This black tee is perfect for Star Wars fans who love a vintage vibe. It features a worn-in, retro-style graphic of the Millennium Falcon with bold diagonal stripes and the “77” marking, a nod to the year the original movie came out. This is a shirt you can wear to the parks or just around town at home. View on Amazon This View-Master 3-D is as vintage as it gets! ©Amazon This updated take on a classic brings the old‑school View‑Master into the Disney100 celebration. Instead of screens or apps, you get a handheld viewer shaped with subtle Mickey details and three 3D reels featuring iconic scenes like Steamboat Willie, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, and Mickey’s birthday over the years. Flick the lever to cycle through the images, and when you’re done, the included plastic case keeps all three reels neatly stored for next time. It’s simple, tactile fun that works for both younger kids and adults who remember the original. View on Amazon This Mickey clock is perfect to add some retro vibes. ©Amazon This 10‑inch wall clock takes the classic wall décor idea and leans into a nostalgic, old‑school look without feeling dated. The face features Mickey in a vintage illustration, and instead of standard hands, his iconic gloved arms actually point to the time. The analog dial is easy to read at a glance, and the clock’s quiet quartz movement means it won’t tick loudly in a bedroom or office. View on Amazon Or, you can grab this retro Toy Story shirt. ©Amazon This Toy Story tee is a great pick if you’re into that ’90s vibe. It’s a crewneck shirt with a distressed Toy Story graphic front and center that highlights the original 1995 cast with Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Rex, Hamm, and more. This would be perfect to wear to the theaters when the new film comes out this year. View on Amazon Did the ’90s call because this vintage quilt is perfect! ©BoxLunch This is what my ’90s childhood dreams are made of! This quilted blanket is a cozy, BoxLunch‑exclusive item to add to your home. Sized at roughly 60″ × 80″, it’s big enough to drape over a couch or pull up around your legs on chilly nights. The design brings together Hercules, Megara, and Pegasus against sky‑inspired colors. View on BoxLunch We love this vintage Disney park map plate. ©Disney This Vintage Map ceramic plate measures about 7 ⅝″ across and brings a little Parks history into everyday life. It has a clean, vintage‑inspired design featuring colorful map‑style graphics around the rim and Walt Disney’s famous entrance quote — “Here you leave today and enter the world of yesterday, tomorrow, and fantasy.” We love that it can be used as well as displayed. It is dishwasher and microwave-safe. View on Disney Store And finally, grab the matching map mug. ©Disney This ceramic mug puts the new Vintage Maps collection to good use with an all‑over print featuring retro park graphics from both Disney World and Disneyland. It holds about 15 oz. and stands roughly 3 7/8″ tall, so it’s a solid choice for your morning coffee or tea, and it’s both dishwasher and microwave-safe for everyday use. The shape and colorful design give it a nostalgic feel without being too in‑your‑face, making it an easy everyday piece for fans of park history. View on Disney Store We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article
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It’s always a lot of fun to celebrate holidays in Disney World, and we’ll never turn down a chance to enjoy Halloween, Valentine’s Day, the 4th of July, Thanksgiving, and Christmas at the Most Magical Place on Earth. Raglan Road But there’s one holiday that gets celebrated in Disney World that you may not know about. It’s National Irish Coffee Day, and a big celebration happens every year on January 25th at Raglan Road in Disney Springs. Well, we got a chance to get in on that celebration, and we’re bringing you along for the ride! If you’re a fan of that whiskey in your coffee, this day is right up your alley. It takes place every year on January 25th, and as Raglan Road is an Irish restaurant, OF COURSE, they’re going to celebrate. Irish Coffee We had a chance to meet Tony, a bartender from The Buena Vista in San Francisco, where Irish Coffee was basically invented in 1952. That bar is so skilled at making Irish coffees (because people flock there to try the drink) that they can make them SUPER FAST. Tony demonstrated his skills for us by making 20 Irish Coffees in under 2 minutes. Tony from The Buena Vista So then James, the resident champ of Raglan Road Irish coffees, took on Tony for a speed-making competition. And, well, let’s just say James could easily keep up because the contest ended up being way too close to call. So if you want an Irish coffee at Raglan Road, you’re going to get it QUICK. James from Raglan Road But that’s not all, because we also got to enjoy some wonderful food. The Pretzel with beer-braised onion cheese sauce says it all because it is literally everything you want in a pretzel and sauce. The spice of the caramelized onions that have been braised in beer brings a deep flavor and richness to the cheese. When you dip the soft and buttery pretzel in it, it’s a match made in heaven. We were told that these pretzels are special because they have a potato base…wait, what? All we know is that these pretzels are very satisfying to eat. Pretzel with beer-braised onion cheese sauce We also got to dive into When Ireland Dates America, which are deep-fried cubes of macaroni and cheese. Okay, you had us at “deep-fried” and “macaroni and cheese.” These are so creamy and cheesy, and they’re topped off with pickled onions, cheese, and edible flowers, which offer a wonderful spin on fried mac and cheese. These will win over any crowd, hands down. When Ireland Dates America The Steak Agus Eggs are, well, gorgeous. You’ve got a perfect runny sunny side up egg sitting on top of a medium rare steak with cheese, caramelized onions, wild sautéed mushrooms, chimichurri, butter, and maple glaze. That’s all sitting on top of a buttermilk biscuit waffle that is just as delicious as it sounds. It’s so fun to pick up bites of this and get all the different layers of flavors. The steak is also perfectly cooked with a pepper seasoning that balances out the cheese and richness of the eggs. Steak Agus Eggs It’s no secret that we’re already fans of the Gers Bread & Butter Pudding, so we couldn’t say no to a Mini version of it. This is Raglan Road’s signature dessert, and basically, it’s one of our favorite things to eat at the restaurant. It’s perfectly sweet with plum raisins throughout. The custard soaks through everything, so you get a sweet and creamy bite that melts in your mouth. If you order nothing else at Raglan Road, get this. Gers Bread & Butter Pudding We weren’t done with dessert, though, because we also got the Got Chocolate, a Double chocolate mousse, caramel sauce, and a chocolate brownie. It’s very chocolatey, but the flavors are balanced. There are also some nice little crunch elements on top that add to the texture. The outer layer is like a light fudge, and that makes a nice contrast to the super whipped and fluffy mousse inside. Got Chocolate The Cheesecake Bake is the ULTIMATE cheesecake. It’s a Baked strawberry cheesecake with vanilla cream cheese and glazed strawberries with a thick graham cracker crust. It’s not too sweet, and the cheesecake really shines withoutthe other flavors covering up its rich creaminess. Cheesecake Bake Raglan Road has been one of our favorite Disney Springs restaurants for a long time, and we enjoy attending the special events that happen throughout the year at the restaurant. We’ll keep you updated on those events, so stay tuned to DFB for more. REVIEW: If You Haven’t Been to This Disney Springs Restaurant, Book a Reservation ASAP Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite food and drinks at Raglan Road? Let us know in the comments! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Raglan Road to attend their celebraiton of National Irish Whiskey Day. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ View the full article
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Who wants a sale?! We KNOW you want a sale, because we always want a sale, and we’re one and the same. JoyJolt Disney Mickey Mouse 3D Glass Cups We were doing some shopping on Amazon, as we normally do, and we spotted some truly AMAZING deals that you won’t want to miss out on, especially if you don’t have a trip coming up for a while and you want some magic at home. You can get up to 60% off some of these items, so trust us when we say the time is now to grab them! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Rain Can Affect You Anywhere! Frogg Toggs Poncho While rain on your Disney World or Universal Orlando vacation stinks, rain anywhere isn’t ideal; it can also affect your everyday life as well. Grab yourself the FROGG TOGGS Poncho to make sure you’re prepared no matter where you are when rain hits. This folds up easily to fit in your bag, and when we say water practically falls right off of it, we mean it! Check it out! An Easy Way to Dress Up Any Outfit Mickey Mouse Endless Hoop Earrings We certainly do love dressing up an outfit while ALSO staying comfortable, and the Mickey Mouse Endless Hoop Earrings are a great way to do that. After a long day in the parks, you may not feel like dressing up completely for dinner. Put these earrings on, and you’ll immediately level up your outfit, or maybe you want to easily level up your park outfit from the get-go. No matter what the situation is, they’re a great choice! Check it out! Adorable Earrings For All! ©Amazon Want earrings that are a little more casual but still perfect for Disney fans, whether you’re in the parks or not? Look no further than the Disney Mismatched Mickey and Minnie Mouse Earrings! One is shaped like Minnie, the other like Mickey, and to us, they go with any outfit. Check it out! Comfortable Shoes? Yes, Please! ©Amazon Want some super cute and comfortable shoes for home? The Women’s Disney Minnie Mouse & Daisy Cozy Crocs are perfect. They’re purple and pink, perfectly matching Minnie and Daisy’s aesthetic. These may not be the best for a rainy day in the parks, but if you know it’ll be dry, and you want a comfortable choice, these might be right up your alley. Check it out! Get Your Apple Watch in On The Fun! ©Amazon If your MagicBand is themed to Disney, you may want your Apple Watch to match. Thankfully, that’s possible with the Soft Silicone Sport Strap! These come in multiple different designs and are pretty cheap (especially when on sale), so you can buy a few and switch them out depending on your outfit, what season you’re in, etc. Check it out! Who Doesn’t Need A New Loungefly? ©Amazon If you’ve been on the hunt for a new Loungefly bag but don’t want to spend a fortune, the Mickey Mouse Marching Band Loungefly Backpack is perfect for your next trip! It features Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy, all in their marching band attire, and if you’re like us, you may be able to hear the marching band from Main Street in your head when you look at it! Check it out! The Perfect Morning Coffee Cups JoyJolt Disney Mickey Mouse 3D Glass Cups We love our morning coffee, and we’re sure you do too, so why not add some whimsy and magic to the beginning of your day? We love doing that with the JoyJolt Disney Mickey Mouse 3D Glass Cups! This comes with a set of two, and since they’re double-walled, you don’t need to worry about burning your hand, no matter how hot your coffee is. Check it out! We’ll continue to keep an eye out for all the latest Disney merchandise, so stay tuned to DFB! View the full article
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Now that we’re into the second week of the EPCOT Festival of the Arts, things are a little quiet in Disney World, at least on the food front. However, that’s not to say that we haven’t enjoyed some new food (and old favorites) this week anyway. When we’re in Disney World, we are GOING to eat, y’all. Mickey Espresso Cupcake So we visited Disney Springs to check out a new s’mores-inspired cake, tried some donut holes on skewers, grabbed some new treats in Magic Kingdom, and checked out a new menu at a Disney World hotel restaurant. That’s not all, though. We also noticed some changes happening at Disney World restaurants…so let’s see what menus are different this week! Magic Kingdom Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies Desserts Hand-dipped Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream description canged from “with Sprinkles” to “with M&M’S Milk Chocolate Minis and price changed from $7.69 to $7.99 Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies Plaza Restaurant Entrees ADDED: Pot Roast Stack — Slow-roasted Beef piled high on Thick-cut Toast with Mashed Potatoes, Vegetables, Caramelized Onion Gravy, and Onion Rings for $26 ADDED: Chipotle Barbecue Pork Sandwich — Slow-cooked Pulled Pork with Coca-Cola Chipotle Barbecue Sauce and Coleslaw served on a Toasted Potato Roll for $17 The Plaza Restaurant EPCOT Monsieur Paul Starter Cocktail REMOVED: Apéritif, amuse-bouche ADDED: Cocktail Maison et Amuse-bouche — Amuse-bouche served with Monsieur Paul’s Cocktail Hors d’oeuvres REMOVED: Salade de homard du Maine, vinaigrette aux fruits de la Passion’ Cassolette d’escargot à la cressonnière sur une émulsion de pomme de terre ADDED: Betterave en textures, nage végétale parfumée — Beetroot declinaison, aromatice vegetal broth Trou Normand REMOVED: Palate Cleanser served with Pear Brandy and Sorbet ADDED: Refreshing Palate Cleanser Meat Courses REMOVED: Filet de bœuf rôti, fricassée de cèpes; pomme de terre mousseline, sauce Bordelaise Desserts REMOVED: Vacherin classique Monsieur Paul Disney’s Hollywood Studios Dockside Diner Beverages REMOVED: Lowfat Milk, Minute Maid Apple Juice Dockside Diner Disney’s Animal Kingdom Tiffins Kid’s Create-Your-Own Selections ADDED: Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae Tiffins Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa Beaches Pool Bar Kids’ Disney Check Meals ADDED: Cheeseburger — Served with Strawberry-flavored Yogurt Smoothie, Carrot Sticks, and choice of Small Lowfat Milk or Small DASANI Bottled Water for $8.99 Beaches Pool Bar Disney’s BoardWalk Inn BoardWalk Deli Water ADDED: Topo Chico Twist of Lime Sparkling Water for $5.25 ADDED: Topo Chico for $5.25 BoardWalk Deli Flying Fish Kids’ Create-Your-Own Selections REMOVED: Fruits on Palm Island, S’more Time at the Beach ADDED: Fruit Bowl The Flying Fish Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort Turf Club Bar and Grill Appetizers REMOVED: Turf Club Butter Board Turf Club Bar & Grill Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Centertown Market Desserts REMOVED: Banana Pudding Cheesecake, Fall Cupcake Centertown Market Disney’s Port Orleans Resort — Riverside Boatwright’s Dining Hall Non-Alcoholic Beverages REMOVED: Agave Garden, Pink Spritzer Boatwright’s Dining Hall Riverside Mill Food Court Entrees ADDED: Lemon Pepper-Parmesan Chicken Strips — Served with choice of Side for $12.99 Riverside Mill Food Court Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Landscape of Flavors Burgers and Chicken ADDED: Gochujang-glazed Chicken Strips — Served with choice of Side for $12.99 REMOVED: Ramen Noodle Bowl with “Meatballs” Landscape of Flavors Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort World Premiere Food Court Burgers and Chicken ADDED: Gochujang-glazed Chicken Strips — Served with choice of Side for $12.99 Plant-based ADDED: Mediterranean Meatball Bowl — Harissa-spiced Impossible® Meatballs, Couscous Salad, Tzatziki Sauce, Pickled Onions, and Cauliflower Pita Crisps (Plant-based) for $13.29 World Premiere Food Court Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort End Zone Food Court Burgers and Chicken Bases Loaded Burger description changed from “Bacon Jam, Onion Ring, and Beer-Cheese Sauce served with French Fries” to “Bacon Jam, Crispy Onions, and Beer-Cheese Sauce” End Zone Food Court Disney Springs The Daily Poutine Entrees ADDED: Steak Frites — Flank Steak, Chimichurri, Bearnaise Sauce, Sweety Drop Peppers, Grated Parmesan for $12.99 The Daily Poutine Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar Light Bites ADDED: Gulf White Shrimp Fritters — Sunshine Stroll Orange Pilsner-battered Shrimp Fritter, Grilled Sweet Peppers, and Datil Pepper Aïoli for $14 Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar It’s good to remember that Disney World restaurant menus change all the time, and if you want to make sure that your favorite snack or food is still around, you can look at the most current menus on the Disney World website or My Disney Experience app. We’ll also let you know when things change, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Disney dining changes are a lot to keep up with! We’ve done all the research for you in writing our DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! We’ve got details on EVERY dining location at Walt Disney World inside our eBook – and it’s easy to download to your tablet or smartphone to take with you on your next trip. 5 Restaurants I Regret Impulse Booking in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Did your favorite Disney World restaurant changes its menu this week? Sound off in the comments! View the full article
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We have some breaking news for travelers headed to Jamaica soon. Jamaica was placed under a Level 3 travel advisory by the U.S. Department of State last year. Travelers were advised to reconsider visiting the country due to heightened safety concerns. Airline Cabin This week, the U.S. Department of State has reduced the travel warning to a Level 2, urging Americans to exercise increased caution if traveling to Jamaica. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re considering a Jamaica trip. New travel guidelines to Jamaica warn visitors to avoid public transportation and driving between cities at night. Violent crime remains high throughout the country. Jamaica’s homicide rate is one of the highest in the Western Hemisphere, and cases of sexual assault against American tourists remain high. ©Tony Smith/Alamy Stock Photo The U.S. State Department still designates some areas of Jamaica as a level 4 travel advisory, urging Americans not to travel there due to high crime rates. U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling to these areas, and they recommend Americans take the same precautions. A full list of Level 4 areas is available on the State Department’s website. Orlando International Airport The U.S. Department of State says that tourist areas have lower crime rates than other parts of the country. Currently, Disney Cruise Line offers cruises with port stops to Falmouth, Jamaica, out of Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The city of Falmouth, beyond the port, is generally regarded as unsafe for tourists, but remains in a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution travel advisory zone. That being said, use your own judgment and caution when traveling, deciding what is safe for you and your family. ©Disney The cruises to Falmouth, Jamaica, are part of their 7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise route. They sail to Falmouth, Jamaica, George Town, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel, Mexico. These routes depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Port Canaveral, Florida. Stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for more travel information. American Airlines Announces New Nonstop Routes to Los Angeles Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you sailing to Jamaica soon? Comment below. View the full article
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We are in the parks every single day on the lookout for the latest news and the best tips for your trip! While we are there, we also spend lots of time testing out finds on Amazon to help you decide which items you need for your vacation. We want you to be prepared in all aspects of your trip, so you know where to stay, where to eat, what to do, and what to pack. JISULIFE Handheld Mini Fan We put the products we test through the wringer to make sure they are the best of the best, and we are sharing six of our favorite Disney essentials that are on sale right now. You will want to grab these before the prices go up! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Grab our favorite poncho: the Frogg Toggs Poncho Frogg Toggs Poncho We don’t want you to be caught in a rainstorm without any rain gear! This Frogg Toggs rain poncho is one of our favorite ponchos. It comes in a variety of colors and is way more breathable than most ponchos. Plus, it packs small into a handy, dandy carry pouch, so it is easy to bring with you wherever you are headed. That way, you will always be prepared if it starts to rain! Get this poncho here! Stay fully charged with the INIU Portable Charger INIU Portable Charger You will be using your phone a lot while you are at Disney World. From using the My Disney Experience app to taking pictures of anything and everything, you don’t want to have to deal with a dead phone. How will you know where you parked if you can’t use your phone? How will you know which attractions have the shortest wait? Or how will you place your Mobile Order for corn dog nuggets? We always carry a portable charger, so we don’t have to worry about our phones dying. We love this INIU Portable Charger as it holds a lot of charge and is compact enough to easily bring along to the parks. Get this portable charger here! Find a spot for everything with the HOYOFO Backpack Organizer HOYOFO Mini Backpack Organizer We love our Loungefly backpacks, but sometimes they feel like a black hole where we can never find what we are looking for. That is where this handy HOYOFO Backpack Organizer comes in! It makes it so easy to organize all your park essentials, and we know we save a lot of time by not having to hunt for things with this organizer. Get this backpack spacer here! Stay cool with the JISULIFE Handheld Fan JISULIFE Handheld Fan It’s no secret that it gets HOT at Disney World. We want to help you stay as cool as possible without lugging a massive product around. We tested a lot of fans, and the JISULIFE Handheld Fan came up on top. It is compact yet powerful, and holds its charge well throughout the day. It definitely hits the spot when sweat is dripping down your face. Get this handheld fan here! Add even more coolness to your day with the AMKEN Waist Fan AMKEN Waist Fan We also love the AMKEN Waist Fan. This little guy gets attached to your waist and provides some powerful coolness up your shirt. We were so impressed by how long this fan lasted, and it really helped us stay cool in the heat. Get this waist fan here! Say bye to back sweat and hello to support with the VentaPak Ventilation Backpack Spacer VentaPak Lightweight Ventilation Backpack Spacer We also love this VentaPak Ventilation Backpack Spacer. It might not be for everyone, but if you are looking for extra back support, have a bulky backpack, or just really hate sweaty backs, we think this backpack spacer would be great. It is easy to use, and it really helped provide support with a bulky backpack. Plus, the airflow kept our backs from getting super sweaty. Get this backpack spacer here! We are in the parks every single day, testing out new items and making sure you always have the most up-to-date information. Plus, we are always keeping an eye out for deals on our favorite Disney essentials, so make sure to stay tuned to DFB for more! View the full article
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We know snacks around Disney World can be expensive, but sometimes they can be EXPENSIVE. Like, “oh my gosh, I can’t believe I spent this amount of money on a single snack,” kinda expensive. That being said, sometimes those high prices are totally worth it. The Cake Bake Shop Bakery This time, we aren’t taking you to an uber fancy restaurant that has a 3-month-long waiting list. We’re going straight to Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, home to The Cake Bake Shop Bakery, which has made us almost (almost) immune to $22 slices of cake, but we’re taking a break from cake and putting our fork into something else. Say hello to the Blueberry Crumble Pie for $17. It is their signature all-butter pie crust, loaded with blueberries, lemon zest, sugar, and topped with a light brown sugar crumble. Look at that filling First up, we have to say it: this thing is MESSY. The blueberry juice was oozing everywhere, and with the spork and one napkin we could grab from the bakery, we weren’t doing too hot. We ended up going nextdoor to the BoardWalk Deli to grab plates and more napkins, which we highly recommend you do, especially if you’re sharing. Filling for days But the taste? Phenomenal. Literally phenomenal. The crust was so buttery and soft, and was a little thick in places, but never dry. There was a crumble on top that was sweet and sugary, and had a fantastic texture against the bottom crust and the blueberry filling. The filling had whole blueberries in it and will be the majority of the flavor, making this a perfect snack for blueberry lovers. The whole pie waiting for us While the price is $17, we think blueberry fans shold make this a priority (or pie fans in general) and you can deifnitely share it with a group if you’re aware of the mess. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for all the food reviews you need for your upcoming Disney World trip, so you know what’s worth the stop. We’re in the parks every day trying new treats and sharing all the details here with you. WHY WE’RE STILL PAYING OVER $20 FOR CAKE SLICES IN DISNEY WORLD Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Do you like the Cake Bake Shop? Tell us your thoughts in the comments. View the full article
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It’s shaping up to be an exciting year at EPCOT! Spaceship Earth If you’re considering an EPCOT trip this year, knowing when to go is half the battle. 2026 is shaping up to be a BIG year for the Disney World park — between festival seasons, ride updates, and more fun events, there are several dates EPCOT pros are gearing up for. Here are some important EPCOT dates that we know about so far — and some windows where we expect big events to pop up… Confirmed Dates EPCOT International Festival of the Arts — January 16th through February 23rd, 2026 Currently ongoing, EPCOT’s first festival of the year — the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts — blends visual, culinary, and performing arts into one very awesome event. Time for Festival of the Arts! You’ll find plenty of art-inspired food booths, the Disney on Broadway Concert Series, live art demonstrations, and tons of Figment-filled fun that draws Picasso enthusiasts and foodies alike! Figment Artist Popcorn Bucket This festival is shorter than the others, so if attending is a priority, make sure you make your way to EPCOT ASAP. Frozen Ever After Ride Changes — January 26th into February 2026 A popular EPCOT attraction is getting a much-needed upgrade! Frozen Ever After Frozen Ever After will temporarily close on January 26th for updates to its audio-animatronics. Disney confirmed facial enhancements — to characters like Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff — that will abandon the projected faces in favor of more expressive animatronic faces like the ones we’ve seen in Tokyo DisneySea and Hong Kong Disneyland. Hong Kong Disneyland Animatronics The change has been long overdue, as the faces on the current Frozen attraction are prone to glitches and have not aged well. If Frozen is a must-do for you and your family, you’ll want to avoid late January/early February trips. An official reopening date has yet to be announced as of this writing. EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival — March 4th through June 1st, 2026 Spring at EPCOT welcomes the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival! Held this year from March 4th through June 1st, this festival brings with it topiaries, outdoor kitchens, and plenty of entertainment and activities the whole family can enjoy! Monorail Some highlights include character topiaries throughout the park, fresh, garden-forward menus, the Garden Rocks Concert Series, and scavenger hunts. Flower and Garden 2025 Considered perhaps the prettiest EPCOT festival, the Flower & Garden Festival may be a priority for you if you’re considering an EPCOT visit in 2026. “Soarin’ Across America” — Debuts May 25th, 2026 Soarin’ will temporarily swap out its usual global adventure “Around the World” for “Soarin’ Across America” later this year! ©Disney This latest version of the ride celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with iconic U.S. landmarks and a patriotic experience that celebrates the many states and what makes them special. ©Disney The change is slated to debut on Memorial Day, so expect the ride to be closed in the days leading up to May 25th — although an official closing date has yet to be revealed. Disney After Hours Events — Select evenings from January 22nd through September 24th, 2026 If you’re looking to experience EPCOT with lower wait times and smaller crowds, Disney After Hours Events are your best bet! EPCOT After Hours Held from 9:30 PM to 12:30 AM on select evenings from January 22nd through September 24th, 2026, these separately-ticketed events are a great way to experience EPCOT without having to worry about crowds and ride/food lines. You even get some complimentary snacks and drinks! Waiting on Disney Confirmation There are some dates for confirmed events we’re still waiting on, such as… EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival will once again return to EPCOT, and we’re expecting dates in late August to mid-November 2026. Food and Wine Festival This summer/fall festival usually offers tons of global marketplaces (food booths), celebrity chef demonstrations, the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, and a unique culinary adventure that truly takes you around the world. EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays The EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays is another festival returning to EPCOT that still needs some confirmed dates. We’re expecting the festival to arrive in late November and end on December 30th, 2026. 2025 EPCOT Festival of the Holidays This event usually rounds out the year at EPCOT and is a festive celebration that transforms World Showcase with seasonal kitchens, storytellers from around the world, and cozy comfort foods that feed the soul. 2025 EPCOT Festival of the Holidays Passport This event usually brings with it Holiday Kitchens with festive spins on global dishes, special holiday traditions in each pavilion, and the famous Candlelight Processional at the America Gardens Theatre featuring celebrity appearances. Josh Gad narrating the 2024 Candlelight Processional And this is only what we know to start out 2026! There’s no way Disney is done making announcements or surprising us with more EPCOT news — so make sure you keep it posted right here at DFB to stay in the know and get all the latest EPCOT (and Disney World) updates! 6 Weeks When Disney World Will Be Empty in 2026 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which EPCOT events are you most looking forward to in 2026? Let us know in the comments! View the full article
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Listen: I’ve tried a lot of fries in my life. I’ve had them covered in barbecue pork, on the side of buffalo chicken tenders, and absolutely smothered in gravy. Disney World is able to take a classic boat of French fries and transform them into something I’ve never tasted before. The Daily Poutine Let me introduce you to a new set of fries that might just be staying at the top of my fries list (and yes, I have one — don’t judge). We’re heading to The Daily Poutine at Disney Springs, which has had some of my favorite fry dishes, to see if these are worth the price. These are the Steak Frites for $12.99, which are fries topped with flank steak, chimichurri, bearnaise sauce, sweet pepper drops, and grated parmesan. Look at these bad boys If you love ordering a steak with fries and dipping them into bernaise sauce, you are going to be obsessed with this (and I also recommend you check out the Steak Frites at Chefs de France in EPCOT for a life-changing cup of the fluffiest bernaise sauce to exist). This whole bowl of fries was SO good. We’ve tried plenty of poutine dishes here before, but these are one of our favorites. Toppings and toppings The fries are thick and sturdy enough to get some toppings with them, but you might want to use a fork to eat them. The steak was cooked beautifully, not too chewy or firm, and easy to bite into. We just wish there were more! The whole bowl was very filling, but we felt like the ratio of fries to steak wasn’t quite balanced. Glorious, glorious fries The chimichurri sauce brought in some extra flavor and a lovely scent. IT also helped make sure nothing was too dry. It was covered in Parmesan cheese, but it wasn’t overwhelming, just enough to get the flavor in. We especially loved the garlic flavor, and the small peppers on top add some sweetness to a few bites. Overall, this could be an easy-peasy lunch or shareable snack, and we’ll be stopping by again to order them. In the meantime, make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more of the best food reviews you need during your upcoming Disney World vacation. WE’VE EATEN AT EVERY DISNEY SPRINGS RESTAURANT. THESE ARE THE BEST. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What’s your favorite fries you’ve gotten at Disney World? Tell us in the comments. View the full article
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Sometimes we feel like a parent, and Disney is our teenager. Stick with us for a second! We’re watching our child (Disney) grow and change through some serious awkward phases while making choices we don’t necessarily love, but we will continue to support. Magic Kingdom Each week, it feels like Disney drops even more news and changes for us to keep up with! That’s why we like to do a weekly news round-up for the most exciting changes, so you don’t miss a single moment. Let’s dive into this week’s changes right here! This week, the Walt Disney Company really kept us on our toes! From Orlando to Anaheim, we’re keeping track of restaurants, expansions, and more in the theme parks and beyond. This week’s theme is festivals and reopenings! Grand Floridian Tea Room Reopening After years of being closed, the Garden View Lounge at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is finally reopening! The lounge has been closed since 2020, but starting on March 19th, 2026, you can once again have that fancy tea experience. ©Disney We have been keeping an eye on this beloved experience for years, so this was our most exciting news from the week. Not only is it reopening, but it’s coming back with a new menu! Now, it’s been reimagined as a fully immersive culinary experience. The experience will now be inspired by Alice in Wonderland with tons of premium offerings. ©Disney You can find sips from a curated lineup of premium loose-leaf Twinings teas, London Strand Breakfast, Spicy Chai, Orangery of Lady Grey, and a Nutty Chocolate Flavored Assam. There’s also going to be so many delicious foods to try. You’ll find a classic Orange-Cranberry Scone with all the accompaniments and a three-tiered tower of savory and sweet bites like the Curried Chicken Salad Playing Card Tart, the Footman’s Feast salmon crisp, the Tweedledee Egg Salad Sandwich, and Caterpillar Cucumber Roll with butterfly-pea-infused cream cheese. ©Disney We’ll be honest, our stomachs are growling just thinking about it! There is so much more to know about this big return to the Grand Floridian, which we have covered right here. First Look at Disney World’s NEW Afternoon Tea Restaurant! Garden Rocks Line Up Staying in Disney World, another major event is coming up soon! Right now, we’re enjoying EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts, but Disney is already planning for the next fest. EPCOT’s Flower and Garden Festival kicks off on March 4th, 2026, and this week, they finally revealed more details about the Garden Rocks Concert Series. Garden Rocks Concert If you’re looking to enjoy this festival’s concert series, we finally know who you can rock out with! The full lineup includes: March 5th-7th — The Music of ABBA (NEW) March 8th-9th — Simple Plan March 13th-14th — Blue October March 15th-16th — Billy Ocean March 20th-23rd — THE ORCHESTRA starring former members of ELO & ELO Part II March 27th-28th — Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone March 29th-30th — 38 Special April 3rd-4th — Chubby Checker April 5th-6th — Sugar Ray April 10th-11th — Information Society (NEW) April 12th-13th — Rick Springfield April 17th-18th — Berlin April 19th-20th — The Commodores April 24th-25th — FireHouse (NEW) April 26th-27th — Air Supply May 1st-2nd — A Flock of Seagulls May 3rd-4th — Plain White T’s May 8th-9th — Katrina, formerly of Katrina & The Waves (NEW) May 10th-11th — 98 Degrees May 15th-16th — The Spinners May 17th-18th — Josiah Queen (NEW) May 22nd-23rd — Iam Tongi (NEW) May 24th-25th — A.J. Croce: Croce Plays Croce May 29th-30th — Queensrÿche May 31st-June 1st — Maverick City Music Garden Rocks Concert Series When we saw The Music of ABBA as the first option, we knew this was going to be a good lineup! Each band performs three times a night, typically at 5:30 PM, 6:45 PM, and 8 PM. We can’t wait to sing our hearts out after a full day of eating. Everything You Need To Know About EPCOT’s Flower and Garden Festival Lunar New Year Kicks Off Across the country, another festival has already begun! It’s the Year of the Horse, and to celebrate, Disney California Adventure is hosting the fan favorite Lunar New Year Festival from January 23 through February 22, 2026. The Lunar New Year Festival is here! We were at the festival’s first day, so we could check out all of the rare characters, food booths, entertainment, and more. The festival celebrates Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese culture, so there are tons of unique options. Bamboo Blessing booth We put SO many bites and sips to the test, but don’t hesitate if you want to try any of them out. You only have 31 days to do so! Learn Everything About Disney’s Lunar New Year Festival Right Here Napa Rose Reopening Finally, a big reopening is coming to Disney’s Grand California Resort! Napa Rose, one of our favorite Disneyland restaurants, has had a lengthy refurbishment, but you can finally dine there again starting on February 6th, 2026. ©Disney The upscale spot is getting a new seasonal prix fixe menu, with the option to add custom wine pairings to a multi-course meal. They’re also debuting a new and enhanced children’s menu for kids 9 and younger. Over at the Chef’s Counter, up to 18 guests can get the opportunity to sit and dine in direct view of the dynamic exhibition kitchen. How fancy is that? ©Disney Disney gave us a sneak peek at new menu items like the Beef Tartare topped with Osetra caviar… ©Disney …Bone Marrow Custard… ©Disney … and the Laughing Tiger, which is a new version of the fan-favorite Smiling Tiger Salad. ©Disney Reservations will be available to book on Disneyland.com and NapaRose.com beginning on January 27th, 2026, no earlier than 9 AM PT. We are too excited about this return to fine dining, so be sure to keep following for more news regarding this restaurant. Everything We Know About Napa Rose’s Reopening Here It’s clearly a week for the foodies in the Disney community, which is what we are literally made for. Be sure to keep following DisneyFoodBlog for more Disney news, food, updates, and more. 2 New Unspoken Rules Disney Adults Are Following in 2026 Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Tell us what you’re most excited about in the comments! View the full article
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When does a perk no longer become a perk, but instead a nuisance? We may have found the answer… Typhoon Lagoon Free doesn’t always actually mean “free”, especially when it comes to a Disney vacation. Everything always comes with a cost — and it’s not always monetary. Sometimes, you could be spending time or energy rather than cold, hard cash. Disney World just offers plenty of “free” perks to its hotel guests, like Early Park Entry and the free Water Park admission perk. However, in the latter’s case, using this perk in 2026 may be a total waste of time. In 2025, Disney World introduced a perk that allowed guests staying at a Disney hotel to visit either Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach FREE OF CHARGE on their check-in day. Already a bit limited, the perk’s usability has been minimized further in 2026. Blizzard Beach As it turns out, this “free” water park perk may be more trouble than it’s worth right now. This isn’t a “use it whenever you want” kinda benefit. As previously mentioned, the water park ticket — which is allocated to every person listed on a hotel reservation — is only valid on your check-in day. Not the next day. Not later on in your trip. You either use it the first day you arrive on-site at Disney World or you lose it. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort That one detail alone creates a MASSIVE problem. Instead of being a neat/fun little perk that elevates your Disney World vacation, it’s one that forces you to build your whole itinerary around it. If you want to get any real value out of this perk, you basically need to fly into Orlando incredibly early in the morning. Late-morning or afternoon arrivals will force you to rush to your hotel and check in after a long flight, waiting for your luggage, and dealing with transportation. After all that, you’ll be lucky to have a couple of hours at a water park — assuming everything goes perfectly. These water parks usually close around 5 to 6 PM. Typhoon Lagoon And let’s say you actually make the time to attend. Well, you’re either exhausted from your red-eye flight or exhausted and feeling rushed after racing through the whole transportation and check-in process. Many folks opt to check into their hotel and relax on their first day. This water park perk totally negates that option. Typhoon Lagoon You could also fly in early and stay off-site the first night before transferring over to a Disney hotel. But then you’re just spending extra money on an extra night and different flights — which could cost far more than a water park ticket to begin with. Planning your trip around a free perk while potentially spending more money is certainly a choice. Blizzard Beach In 2026, the perk is limited to a summer-season-only perk. So you may not even have a choice in the matter. On top of that, summertime is in demand at Disney World due to summer break, which can lead to higher hotel prices, more expensive flights, heavier crowds, hotter temps, and more frequent storms. Once again, if you’re bypassing cheaper times of the year to visit in order to utilize this free perk during an expensive season, you might be better off paying out of pocket for water park tickets instead. Remember, Disney always has at least one water park open year-round (weather permitting), so if you’re dead-set on visiting, you don’t necessarily have to do so in the summer. Blizzard Beach When you look at the perk as a whole, sometimes the math just doesn’t math. To make this perk work, you may need to choose pricier summer dates, book earlier flights, skip a relaxed arrival day, and push yourself to do a high-energy activity after travel. All for a water park ticket that you might not even fully use. Of course, if you plan accordingly, you can absolutely make this perk work for you and your family. However, keep in mind that sometimes the smartest Disney move is skipping the “free” thing entirely and opting to enjoy your vacation the way YOU want, instead. Typhoon Lagoon How do you feel about this perk that grants free admission to Disney’s water parks? Have you used it? Let us know in the comments, and continue to follow us here at DFB for all kinds of Disney World tips that can help you have your best vacation yet! 12 Biggest Time-Wasters Disney Adults (Including Me) Fall For in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What are your favorite Disney World “free” perks? Let us know in the comments! View the full article
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It’s time to celebrate the Lunar New Year! Lunar New Year merchandise! There’s a huge celebration happening in Disney California Adventure, which is having its Lunar New Year Celebration from January 23rd through February 22nd. The festival brings a lot of food via food booths to the park, as well as a lot of great entertainment, activities, and more. However, the festival also brings new merchandise, and now’s the time to snag it! The festival might be short, but it’s not short on merchandise. So it’s time to get shopping. Let’s check out the new souvenirs below. Ears The first thing you’ll have to consider buying is the special Lunar New Year Ears. Lunar New Year Ears These will probably sell out fast, so you’ll want to get your hands on them ASAP. Apparel If you’re looking for something else to wear, you’ll find plenty of clothing items to celebrate the Lunar New Year. It’s not a Disney event without a special Spirit Jersey! Spirit Jersey You’ll also find a special Magic Key Lunar New Year Shirt that’s only available for passholders to purchase. You’ll need to show your Magic Key before checking out. Magic Key Lunar New Year Shirt You can also find a Lunar New Year Jersey with none other than Horace on the back… Lunar New Year Jersey …as well as a Lucky Foods Lunar New Year Shirt. Lucky Foods Lunar New Year Shirt A Mickey and Minnie Lunar New Year Shirt is also available. But, wait, there’s more! Other Souvenirs There are some other souvenirs you can get, too, including Lunar New Year Pin Lunar New Year Magic Key Exclusive Pin Lunar New Year Mug Mickey Lunar New Year Plush More merch! Lunar New Year Envelopes Lunar New Year Envelopes Lunar New Year Loungefly Crossbody and Coin Purse Loungefly Crossbody and Coin Purse There you go! That’s all the merchandise you can get at the Lunar New Year Festival. We’ll be covering the whole thing, so be sure to keep following us for food reviews, updates, and more. 2026 Disneyland After Dark Events in Disneyland Resort Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! WE KNOW DISNEY. YOU CAN, TOO. Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be attending the 2026 Lunar New Year Celebration in California Adventure? What’s your favorite part of the festival? Share with us in the comments! View the full article
