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As the most magical – and busiest – time of the whole year approaches, the Guest Experience Team in Magic Kingdom is ready! Guest Experience Team on Main Street While in the park yesterday, we spotted Walt Disney World Guest Experience Team kiosks on Main Street USA and in Tomorrowland. What are these kiosks for, and how can they help you make the most of your Walt Disney World vacation over the holiday season? We’ve got the answers! If you need information on wait times, FastPass+, dining information, tour information, assistance with lost and found items, or general information, the Guest Experience Team can help! Guest Experience Team on Main Street Conveniently, there’s also a Guest Experience Team kiosk in Tomorrowland outside of the building that once housed Stitch’s Great Escape. Guest Experience Team in Tomorrowland In addition to serving as a base for Cast Members who can assist with questions and information about the park, this kiosk also has a digital wait times display. Guest Experience Team in Tomorrowland That way, if you aren’t using the My Disney Experience app or your connection isn’t cooperating (it happens sometimes on busy days!), you can check out wait times for attractions throughout the park all in one spot. Wait Times Board at the Guest Experience Team Kiosk in Tomorrowland The Guest Experience Team kiosks are open until 11:00 PM or until park close, whichever is earlier. Members of the Guest Experience Team will also be strolling throughout Frontierland, Adventureland, Liberty Square, and Fantasyland. Need help? Just look for the blue shirts with the castle logo. We’ve only spotted these Guest Experience Team kiosks in Magic Kingdom so far, but we’ll keep you posted if we see similar spots in Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or Disney’s Animal Kingdom this week. Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney World Fun This Holiday Season! The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2018 is a one-of-a-kind resource that will help you get the most out of your holiday vacation at Walt Disney World. Order The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2018 now! It includes over 400 pages of must-have information, including: A full What’s New!! chapter for the 2018 Holiday Season A full Monthly Schedule of Events for the Holiday Season How to avoid the crowds on Disney World’s busiest days (and when Disney World closes their parks due to capacity!) ALL of the events, activities, and holiday additions in Walt Disney World. ALL. OF. THEM. And of course we’ll tell you where to eat! ;-D Order your 2018 Guide now and get 20% off with code PEPPERMINT! As always, our e-Books are 100% guaranteed! If you don’t love it, you get your money back! First-timers and Disney pros alike: would having access to a Guest Experience Team kiosk be helpful to you? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: News and Review: Pretzels at Magic Kingdom’s Lunching Pad — Our Favorites are BACK! Review: ALL! THE! CHEESE! at Casey’s Corner in the Magic Kingdom Review: All-American Sundae at Plaza Ice Cream Parlor in Disney World View the full article

Last year, we had the Rose Gold Ears frenzy. In March, Millennial Pink Ears took over. Now, guess what’s arriving at Walt Disney World on December 26, 2018? Potion Purple Ears © Disney That’s right – POTION PURPLE ears! These sparkly purple beauties debut at World of Disney at Disney Springs on Wednesday, December 26. World of Disney usually opens at 10:00 AM; however, Annual Passholders will have a chance to shop starting at 9:00 AM. Already marking your calendar to add the Potion Purple Ears to your collection? While you’re there, don’t forget to soak up the last few days of Holidays at Disney Springs magic. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Are Potion Purple Ears going to be a must-have for you in 2019? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: NEW Reusable Shopping Bags Available at the All-New World of Disney in Disney World Review: Limited-Time-Only Margarita Cupcake at Sprinkles in Disney World and Disneyland Check Out These St. Patrick’s Day Treats in Disney Springs! View the full article

There’s a new offering at Capt. Cook’s, the Counter Service restaurant in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Captain Cook’s entrance sign Chicken Wings are currently being served with a choice of four flavors: Spicy Korean BBQ, Buffalo, Parmesan Black Pepper, and Hawaiian Tamarind. Chicken Wings Menu You’ll find them on a temporary pop-up sign, so we don’t know yet if these are available simply for the busy holiday season or if they’ll make it onto the regular menu. We received six with our order of Hawaiian Tamarind Chicken Wings. (Yep, the sign says Tamarin, but a Tamarin is a Monkey, so… we’re pretty sure they’re not monkey-flavored chicken wings and are, instead, Tamarind-flavored chicken wings. But if you know differently, let us know!) Hawaiian Tamarin Wings They’re served with a spicy pickled veggie slaw. Pickled Slaw The presentation in and of itself is fun! Hawaiian Tamarin Chicken Wings You can catch up on a bit of the news while you eat . Lining Paper Lining Paper But back to those wings… Hawaiian Tamarin Chicken Wings So, if we’re correct and the the “Tamarin” is a typo and the sauce is actually tamarind, it’s a flavor intending to lend some sweet-meets-sour kick to the dish. What we can say for certain is that the sauce — whether monkey or tamarind flavored — was really bland. Hawaiian Tamarin Chicken Wing There was not much discernible flavor at all — no spice, no sweet, no sour. On the upside, though, the chicken wing was pretty good. Tender inside, while some of the outside had an enjoyable crisp. Ultimately, we would try them again, but with one of the other sauces. Hawaiian Tamarin Chicken Wings Of course, there’s no shortage of food to try at the Polynesian! Take a Food Tour of the entire Resort in our DFB YouTube Video!  Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Would you try the Chicken Wings at Capt. Cook’s? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: Review! Mickey’s Birthday Cupcake Arrives Early at Polynesian Village Resort’s Capt. Cook’s! DFB Video: Top 5 Disney World Resorts for FOOD! Review: Okalani’s Shave Ice at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort View the full article

After being sued last week over property assessments for the solar farm at Walt Disney World, Orange County Property Appraiser Rick Singh’s office acknowledged a mistake had been made and it was fixed Wednesday. The land is being leased for the solar farm, which automatically triggered the system... View the full article

“Welcome to The Tropical Hideaway, you lucky people, you!” The Tropical Hideaway! The Tropical Hideaway will soon reveal itself to explorers and adventurers in Disneyland’s Adventureland, and we are SO excited to have been able to attend a Media Preview for this brand new location today before its official opening to the public on Friday, December 21st! The Tropical Hideaway Nestled on the shores between two beloved attractions — Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room and the Jungle Cruise — this new Counter Service location takes inspiration from its tropical neighbors for its trader’s market setting, with food and drink offerings likewise highlighting exotic cuisine from around the globe. “Catch of the Day” We will be back with a full review VERY soon, but we couldn’t resist sharing these glimpses of what’s sure to become a favorite tropical hangout in Adventureland! Rosita The Tropical Hideaway Dole Whip, I Presume The Tropical Hideaway Menus Dole Whip Float and Loaded Whip And here’s a look at some of that global-inspired cuisine… Fresh Off the River! “Fresh Off the River” Bao Buns! Spiced Vegetable Bao, Kaffir Lime Chicken Bao, and Bulgogi Beef Bao Sweet Pineapple Lumpia It’s the Best of the Jungle! “Best of the Jungle” Oh, and did we mention there is a Dole Whip Bar?! Dole Whip Menu And it doesn’t just stop at Pineapple… Orange and Raspberry are options, too, in Swirls and Floats besides. Dole Whip Menu closeup Dole Whip Swirl But wouldn’t you like to see a Loaded Whip?! Loaded Whip Menu Twisted Ambush And that’s JUST for starters! There is SO much more to see… Exotic Lamp Sales … and TASTE… Chilled Ramen Shaker Salad … and HEAR (more about our new friend, Rosita, soon to come)… Rosita… and a Dole Whip! at The Tropical Hideaway! We’ll be back SOON with our full review! Check out MORE Disneyland Food Fun on our Disneyland Page! Are you excited to explore The Tropical Hideaway? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: Look Who’s Coming to The Tropical Hideaway in Disneyland Park! The Tropical Hideaway to Open Later This Year in Disneyland (Plus a Sneak Peek at the Menu!) Disneyland Hack: Tajin Dole Whips View the full article

Looking for that perfect peppermint dessert to add to your holiday table? I’ve got just the recipe for you! The holiday season at Disneyland Resort is filled with sweets and treats galore, and one of my personal favorite dishes this year is from the Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park. The Milk Chocolate Candy Cane Pot de Crème can be found at the Winter Sliderland marketplace, alongside a few other festive dishes including Holiday Stuffing Mac & Cheese and the Frosty Frosé. This peppermint-inspired dessert could be the perfect conclusion to a festive feast or even a fun and fanciful treat to serve at your holiday soirée! The recipe listed below serves six to eight people, and pairs wonderfully with biscotti and a late bottled vintage port wine. And while this particular dessert is traditionally served in little “pots,” it can be also be served in a wine or martini glass. INGREDIENTS CANDY CANE POTS DE CRÈME 1 teaspoon powdered unflavored gelatin 1 tablespoon cold water 2 cups heavy cream 5 large egg yolks 1/4 cup sugar 3/4 cup chopped milk chocolate or milk chocolate chips 1 teaspoon peppermint extract GARNISHES Whipped cream Crushed peppermint candy Chocolate peppermint bark FOR CANDY CANE POTS DE CRÈME Stir together powdered gelatin and water in small bowl; let it sit while cream heats (gelatin will solidify). Heat heavy cream in medium saucepan over medium heat until steaming. Do not bring to a boil. Once cream begins to steam, add gelatin and stir to dissolve. In a separate bowl, beat together egg yolks and sugar until pale in color. While whisking continuously, drizzle 1/2 cup of hot cream into egg yolk mixture. Whisk remaining egg yolk mixture into hot cream. Turn heat to low. Continue cooking and stirring until mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (155°F), about 3 to 4 minutes. Add chocolate to a large bowl and pour hot cream mixture over chocolate. Let sit for 1 to 2 minutes, then stir well (or carefully blend mixture in a blender or using a stick blender). Stir in peppermint extract. Strain mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps. Pour into 4-ounce serving cups and refrigerate at least 4 hours. TO SERVE Once pots de crème are firm, use a pastry bag with a star tip to pipe a rosette of whipped cream on top (or dollop whipped cream on top). Just before serving, sprinkle with crushed peppermint candy and add peppermint bark on top of whipped cream. (This recipe has been converted from a larger quantity in the restaurant kitchens. The flavor profile may vary from the restaurant’s version. All recipes are the property of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc., and may not be reproduced without express permission.) In addition to this tasty recipe, there are plenty of other delectable holiday eats and sips at Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park through January 8, 2019. Check out my Foodie Guide for all of the yummy details, and be sure to visit the Disneyland Resort website for info on all of the holiday offerings available this season. And for more recipes from multiple festivals at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, why not bring home the new Disney Festivals Cookbook? Available for purchase in-person only at Epcot and Disney California Adventure Park. View the full article

A tax dispute is brewing over land near Walt Disney World that is being used to build a giant solar farm. Miami-based Origis Energy USA is building a solar farm scheduled to come online in a few weeks to generate renewable energy. The 270-acre, 50-megawatt solar facility along State Road 429 will... View the full article

Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment cast members are known for the exceptional care they provide to animals around the world and the wonderful ways they help our guests connect with nature here at Walt Disney World Resort and in the wild. Our team pays close attention to details and draws inspiration from wildlife – traits that translate well into photography. Many of our animal care team members enjoy taking photos as a hobby and recently, four of them were honored for images they submitted to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ annual photo contest. These photos share the beauty and charm of animals and habitats at Disney locations such as Disney’s Animal Kingdom and along the shoreline of Disney’s Vero Beach Resort. Below are the honored photographs taken by Disney cast members. Jay Ballard, Wild Africa Trek Excursion Guide – Mandrill Meg Pahel, Wild Africa Trek Excursion Guide – Okapi Eileen Cicotello, Zoological Manager – Loggerhead turtle at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort Katelynne Veaudry, Trails Operations – Lions As all of the photos illustrate, when our ASE cast members photograph the animals they care for each day, their love and dedication is clearly in focus. View the full article

Early in the history of the Walt Disney Studios, annual Christmas-themed greeting cards were created featuring designs and illustrations by such legendary studio artists as Tom Wood, Hank Porter, Bob Moore, Mary Blair, John Hench, and Paul Wenzel. Over eight decades, the artists of the Walt Disney Studios also created annual seasonal artwork for merchandise, greeting cards, advertisements, and publications, and in support of motion picture releases, television programs, and the Disney Parks & Resorts. “What makes the Disney Christmas cards special were that they meant you were part of the family,” historian and author Jim Korkis says. Indeed, Disney Christmas cards are like those annual family update letters you get from far-off relatives. In the case of the Disney cards, the update was typically about a current or upcoming film release, or after 1955, the latest news in what was then called “outdoor entertainment,” but we know today as Disney Parks & Resorts. This 1955 card by an uncredited Disney Studio artist celebrated the successes and heightened public awareness of the Disney organization. Walt had conquered the medium of television with the Disneyland and Mickey Mouse Club TV programs, and the interior of this card featured a calendar for the following year commemorating the opening of Disneyland park to thunderous acclaim the prior July. Studio artist Paul Wenzel created this art for the 1959 card. Only five years after the premiere of the Disneyland TV series (and four years after the opening of the actual park), Sleeping Beauty Castle had become an immediately recognized symbol of all that Disney represented in terms of fantasy, imagination, and entertainment. Studio Art Director Bob Moore became fascinated with paper engineering in the 1960s and 1970s, and this 1971 card featured an intricate hexagonal folding design, and represented the great gift of the recent opening of Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. For the 1982 card, a familiar pretty petite pixie flies over Disney Imagineer Clem Hall’s lavish and detailed conceptual aerial view of EPCOT Center (now Epcot), the enormous and innovative new Disney park concept that had just previewed the 21st Century before thrilled crowds at Walt Disney World Resort. A freak 1983 blizzard blanketed Tokyo Disneyland with an extraordinarily picturesque coat of winter white—and the staff photographers knew that the first Disney park to be covered with a natural snowfall was well worth documenting. Many thought the 1984 holiday card was achieved with Disney magic, but that’s a real Disney-land, in a real snowstorm. (Disney Legend Jim Cora believes that Disneyland International employee Nancy Valeri took the original photo.) As had been the case in Tokyo in 1983, Disneyland Paris saw an unusual snowfall in 1997, and the photographers were ready. A winter fantasy of Le Château de a Belle au Bois Dormant opened to reveal a holiday greeting from Mickey. The annual company holiday card has for decades been an example of corporate pride in achievements of the year past or a preview of the year to come. Celebrating the opening of Disney California Adventure park, the 2000 card featured a “snowcapped” Grizzly Peak, the mountain icon of the new park. This Christmas season, readers can peruse rarely seen and seldom-published examples of vintage Disney Christmas cards and holiday art featuring beloved Disney characters and scenes from contemporary Disney projects. Gift-wrapped and sparkling in the spirit of the season, From All of Us to All of You: The Disney Christmas Card is a one-of-a-kind collection of familiar, festive, fun, and feeling holiday art, created within the magical world of Disney to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year—as Dickens saw it, “a kind forgiving, charitable, pleasant time…when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely.” View the full article

Disney’s “Mary Poppins Returns” film opens in theaters today! And to celebrate, we’ve got another “Poppins-related” surprise – the chance to receive one copy of the new “Practically Poppins in Every Way: A Magical Carpetbag of Countless Wonders” written by author Jeff Kurtti. “Practically Poppins in Every Way: A Magical Carpetbag of Countless Wonders” – from Disney Editions – is a celebration of Mary Poppins in her many incarnations, and a colorful and lavish showcase of the varied art and creative forces that have brought her to life, generation after generation. You can enter for a chance to win one of Jeff’s “Practically Poppins in Every Way: A Magical Carpetbag of Countless Wonders” books by clicking here and following the entry instructions to complete an official entry form. Your entry must state your valid email address and full name. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Sweepstakes starts 12/19/18 at 1:01 p.m. ET and ends 12/19/18 at 3:01 p.m. ET. Open only to persons who, upon entering, are not deemed minors in their jurisdiction of primary residence and are legal residents of, and physically located within, the 50 U.S. or D.C. Limit 1 entry per person/per email address. For complete details, including full eligibility requirements, odds of winning and limitations, see Official Rules. Void where prohibited by law. View the full article

Hi, there! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re discussing whether Disney World After Hours events are worth the money! After Hours in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Currently, three Disney World parks offer After Hours events: Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, and Magic Kingdom. These extra-ticket events offer limited-to-no wait times at popular attractions in the parks due to capping the event at a low guest capacity, and snacks and beverages are also included. These events, however, do come with a fairly high price tag. So today we’re discussing if Disney World After Hours might be worth it for your group in our latest DFB YouTube Video! And if you love this video, there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel! By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode! So check out the video and then let us know: Are you interested in attending an After Hours event? Related posts: DFB Video: Things Most People Don’t Know About Walt Disney World DFB Video: How to Survive Disney World Weather (and Hurricane Season) DFB Video: Disney World Bathrooms! (Volume I) View the full article

You may have already seen the new Starbucks Ceramic Hot Drink Tumblers hitting the shelves at Disney World park Starbucks locations like Epcot’s Fountain View, Animal Kingdom’s Creature Comforts, and The Trolley Car Cafe in Hollywood Studios. Magic Kingdom Starbucks Tumbler The new Magic Kingdom Tumbler at Main Street Bakery echoes the same style and design, but is packed with icons specific to Disney World’s original park. Magic Kingdom Starbucks Tumbler It’s become a fun game with this new line of Tumblers to spot as many favorite aspects of the park as you can in a more-you-look-the-more-you’ll-find fashion. We spot nods to Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain, and more beloved attractions. You can’t miss Cinderella Castle, of course. Magic Kingdom Starbucks Tumbler Two of my favorite touches are the Magic Kingdom parking entrance gates and our pal, the Little Orange Bird from Sunshine Tree Terrace. And Mickey? On this tumbler, he’s dressed up in his classic greet costume. Magic Kingdom Starbucks Tumbler Doesn’t get much better than that! As with the other tumblers, the Starbucks logo and “drink order boxes” decorate the other side. Magic Kingdom Starbucks Tumbler And the lid on this one is a complementary blue to the Magic Kingdom side of the mug. Magic Kingdom Starbucks Tumbler Are you planning on getting the new Magic Kingdom tumbler? Price list for current Magic Kingdom collection mugs And, if so, are you hoping to have it to complete a collection or simply to display your love for the Magic Kingdom? We’d love to hear about it! Find out about all the in-parks Starbucks locations and more treats for true coffee lovers in our DFB YouTube video!  Please let us know what you think of the latest Magic Kingdom Starbucks Tumbler with a comment below! Related posts: Review: Disney Halloween Cupcake and the Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin at Main Street Bakery What’s New Around Walt Disney World — January 23, 2017 Review! Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Treats (with Haunted Mansion Portrait Desserts!) View the full article

If you have a hankering for a fresh-baked pretzel the next time you’re in Disneyland’s Downtown Disney District, you’re in luck! Wetzel’s Pretzels has reopened its flagship location after a lengthy refurbishment! Reimagined Wetzel’s Pretzels in Disneyland ©Disney The grand reopening ceremonies included a DJ, “festivities,” and of course, PRETZELS. The redesigned store features a “California-inspired design with an indoor-outdoor feel and a modern, upscale look.” Two local artists – Trek Thunder Kelly and Dan Medina – were commissioned by Wetzel’s to work on the design. Interior of the new store ©Disney Kelly painted a mural inside the store that features Pasadena, the hometown of Wetzel’s, and 12 hidden pretzels! And Medina designed custom door handles that form a pretzel when the doors are closed. When you stop by the updated Wetzel’s Pretzels in the Downtown Disney District you’ll find favorites including the full line of pretzels, Wetzel’s Dogs, Bitz, and more — all made fresh throughout the day. Pretzels Up Close And remember, even more new dining locations are coming soon to the Downtown Disney District including – Ballast Point Brewery and Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer! Will you be stopping by Wetzel’s Pretzels for a snack? Let us know in the comments. Related posts: Our Favorite Savory Snacks in Disneyland Dining in Disneyland: Summertime S’mores Treats Hit the Disneyland Resort Review: The Brand New Disneyland Splitsville Luxury Lanes! View the full article

More details are dribbling out about NBA Experience, a hands-on, basketball-themed attraction now under construction at Disney Springs. The destination, being built on the former site of the long-standing DisneyQuest attraction, will feature physical activities, mental challenges and other professional... View the full article

I’ve loved basketball since I was little, and like millions of other kids around the world, I dreamed of what it would be like to play in the NBA. The plastic hoop in my parents’ basement was the scene of countless slam-dunk competitions, as I mimicked the high-flying moves of my favorite players. In summer 2019, NBA Experience will open at Disney Springs and allow kids of all ages (including yours truly) the chance to live out those dreams in a whole new way. Developed by Walt Disney Imagineering in collaboration with the NBA, this one-of-a-kind destination will feature hands-on activities that highlight the action and excitement of professional basketball. NBA Experience will be full of thrills, whether you’re a lifelong fan like me or you’re brand new to the game. When you step inside this immersive environment next year, you will: Experience one of the biggest milestones for a basketball player at the NBA Draft with a photo moment that re-creates the atmosphere of the draft stage. Track and improve their jump shots and passing skills in a replicated NBA Combine challenge, complete with a scouting report that highlights their stats at the end of the session. Step onto the court and hear the roar of the crowd as they maneuver through a series of timed shots to aim for a high score. Execute the perfect slam dunk just like NBA superstars, captured by cameras surrounding adjustable baskets. Test their ball-handling skills with an interactive trainer who will challenge them with a variety of dribbling routines. Use an oversized slingshot to launch basketballs at hoops of varying heights, making as many shots as possible before the clock runs out in this thrilling timed challenge. Immerse themselves in the rich legacy and history of NBA and WNBA championship-winning teams. Access a team locker room that showcases up-to-date statistics and visuals of top NBA and WNBA players. Test their knowledge of the NBA and WNBA – past and present – during a trivia game with up to 25 participants competing against one another to be champion. Enjoy two 180-degree cinematic presentations that showcase the in-arena experience moments before the start of the game, as well as special stories from the players’ perspectives. Take a seat at an interactive multi-screen module to watch replay clips from NBA games, using the tools at their stations to make the right calls. Play interactive basketball games, from the fan-favorite Pop-A-Shot to modern video games To top it all off, you’ll be able to explore a retail store featuring exclusive NBA-themed merchandise designed by Disney. We’ll have more details for you in the coming months, so keep checking the Disney Parks Blog as we get ready for the grand opening of NBA Experience next summer. Until then…keep working on that jump shot. View the full article

The new year isn’t even here yet, but one of the hottest new colors of 2019 is about to debut at Disney Springs. Eager to add a new shade to your collection of glittery Minnie-inspired ears? Then make plans to visit World of Disney on December 26. If Santa doesn’t deliver everything on your wish list, this is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to something you really want! I’ll always hold a special place in my heart for millennial pink, but I have to admit, I’m thrilled for something that feels fresh and fun – and potion purple is it! World of Disney opens at 10 a.m. daily, but Annual Passholders will have early access to the store on December 26, 2019 starting at 9 a.m. Will you be among the first trendsetters to try the look? Tag your potion purple styles with “#DisneySprings” for your chance to be featured on our @DisneySprings Twitter and Instagram handles in the new year. View the full article

Growing up, the holidays were always full of celebrations featuring all of my favorite dishes, lively music and lots, and I mean LOTS of family. We would exchange gifts, create recuerdos and celebrate tradiciones familiares. Our fiestas navideñas were also full of photos, a perfect way to capture everything and remember all that were with us, including the gifts we got and food we ate. Those photos are treasured memories that tell a story of what Christmas means to us: familia. If your family holiday tradition includes a visit to Walt Disney World Resort, our team of Disney PhotoPass photographers can help you capture cherished photo memories you can look back on for years to come. And better yet, your memories will include the entire family! No one will be stuck taking the photo! In addition to capturing photos of your family with favorite Disney icons and the festive Christmas trees found at our parks, Disney PhotoPass is adding some extra magic to your photos. From elves to favorite Disney characters – these Magic Shots are must have Disney holiday recuerdos with a sprinkle of pixie dust. And there are even more holiday memories waiting to be captured – all yours with Memory Maker! Visit Disneyworld.com/MemoryMaker to learn how you can get unlimited digital downloads of all your Disney PhotoPass vacation photos and more for one price! Your Disney Familia wishes you a Feliz Navidad y Prospero Año Nuevo full of magic! View the full article

If you’ve yet to experience the magic of runDisney – or if you just can’t wait to experience it again – event and on-sale dates for the 2019-2020 race season are now available. With entertainment, special character appearances and other Disney magic in every mile, runDisney races are an unforgettable experience for runners of all ages and skill levels. runDisney races are the only opportunity for runners and Disney fans alike to run through the Walt Disney World Resort. In fact, the Walt Disney World Marathon takes runners through all four theme parks plus ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex! You can also take the magic of running at home with the Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon and runDisney Virtual Series. Run, jog or walk on a treadmill or around the neighborhood to earn exclusive medals and a finisher certificate. Check out the on-sale dates for each runDisney event in 2019-2020 as well as race weekend dates below. Mark your calendars! To learn more about runDisney events, please visit us here! Follow us: Facebook: @runDisney Instagram: @runDisney Twitter: @runDisney YouTube: @runDisney View the full article

Coming off yet another Grammy© nomination this week, Bart Milliard, lead singer of the Contemporary Christian group MercyMe, also made his debut as a celebrity narrator at this year’s Candlelight Processional, part of the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays. As the lead singer of one of the most beloved Contemporary Christian groups of all time, MercyMe, Millard’s vocals have been heard on millions of records including the biggest selling Christian song of all time – “I Can Only Imagine.” Millard also scored big this year with a movie of his life, called – of course – “I Can Only Imagine.” Millard, who has spent part of his life in Central Florida, is a huge fan of Walt Disney World and Epcot, but had never visited during the holidays. We caught up with him before a performance and asked him about his experience this year as narrator, exciting times for MercyMe and his personal family holiday traditions. Epcot International Festival of the Holidays Holiday traditions from around the world come to life at Epcot International Festival of the Holidays, featuring the new Holiday Cookie Stroll and new food and beverage at Holiday Kitchens. Through Dec. 30, Epcot brims with holiday magic, as guests will be able to sample international seasonal delicacies, delight in live entertainment, and enjoy festive decor. Guests discover a festival like no other, featuring the joyous holiday traditions of our 11 World Showcase nations. Epcot International Festival of the Holidays surrounds you in the wondrous sights, sounds and flavors of the season, as celebrated by cultures near and far. Guests also savor some of the most delectable holiday dishes from across the globe at 13 specialty kitchens set around World Showcase. New items this year include black forest roulade with cherry whipped cream at the Bavaria Holiday Kitchen in the Germany pavilion and sofrito-marinated beef with sweet plantains and olives at the Feast of the Three Kings Holiday Kitchen. At the Candlelight Processional, the story of Christmas is powerfully told by a celebrity narrator accompanied by a full choir and a 50-piece orchestra in a performance that inspires joy and holiday spirit. New narrators this year include the voice of Moana, Auli’i Cravalho and Joey Fatone. Returning favorites include Pat Sajak, Cal Ripken Jr. and voice of Ariel, Jodi Benson. Guests can add more magic to their holiday celebrations with a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner followed by reserved seating at a performance of the Candlelight Processional. Dining options include some of the tastiest restaurants in Epcot and the adjacent Disney’s BoardWalk Resort and Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. Limited dates for the Candlelight Dining Packages are still available; please visit www.Epcotholidays.com for more information or call (407) WDW-DINE. For more information about the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays or all holiday events at Walt Disney World Resort, check out http://www.disneyworld.com/holidays. View the full article

Pretzel lovers rejoice! Wetzel’s Pretzels, an innovator of soft, fresh-baked pretzels, has returned to the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort after an extensive renovation. Wetzel’s celebrated its grand re-opening today with a deejay, festivities and a giant pretzel wall game, plus its famous pretzels you know and love! This flagship store features a California-inspired design with an indoor-outdoor feel and a modern, upscale look. Wetzel’s commissioned two local artists: Trek Thunder Kelly and Dan Medina. Kelly, known for his large-scale murals—including the Sky Mural in Venice Beach—painted a mural that wraps around the inside of the store with images of Pasadena, Wetzel’s hometown, and 25 hidden pretzels as a nod to Wetzel’s 25th anniversary. Medina, known for his bronze sculptures, such as the Antonio Aguilar monument in Los Angeles, designed custom door handles that create a pretzel when the doors are closed. What’s your perfect pretzel? Is it the Cheese Meltdown, a Pepperoni Twist, a Wetzel Dog, a Cin-A-Bitz or the Original? In the Downtown Disney District, Wetzel’s Pretzels serves its most popular items, including the company’s full line of pretzels, Wetzel’s Dogs, Bitz, and fresh and frozen lemonade. The pretzels are baked from scratch throughout the day from simple ingredients such as flour, filtered water, yeast and a touch of salt; it’s been the Wetzel’s way since the company’s first location opened 25 years ago. Downtown Disney District is the place to be with a myriad of exciting venues, shops and entertainment. This year, the promenade welcomed Splitsville Luxury Lanes, The VOID, The Disney Dress Shop, Salt & Straw scoop shop, a reimagined World of Disney store and the new Napolini. Soon the district will welcome the new Naples Ristorante e Bar, Ballast Point brewery and Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes, all coming soon! View the full article

The countdown is on! Christmas is in one week, and if you’re like me, you have just a few more gifts to buy. Need some inspiration? In addition to the great suggestions you’ll find via the Disney Springs Gift Guide, some of our most festive Disney Springs cast members are also sharing their best holiday shopping tips. Check out the video below for more and maybe I’ll see you in the check-out line! View the full article

As a child, I spent countless hours in toy stores dreaming of which presents I wanted Santa Claus to leave under my family’s tree. With only a handful of days left to find that perfect toy for the holidays, I spoke with the ShopDisney.com team to learn which toys are this year’s must-have items. From classic Disney Princesses to heroes from a galaxy far, far away, their list includes something for everyone and makes me wish I was a kid again! Disney Parks Holiday Train Set Created especially for Disney Parks, Mickey and the gang set out for the North Pole with the festive remote-control toy train gift set. The set includes a locomotive, four train cars with animated character surprises and over 20 feet of track! Cinderella Castle Play Set – Walt Disney World Resort Inspired by the iconic Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom Park, this play set includes lights, sounds and action figures of world-famous Disney characters. It’s a Cinderella dream come true from Walt Disney World Resort. Doll Gift Sets For Guests who love classic Disney stories and Disney’s most beloved heroines, two gift sets are available this year. The Disney Animator’s Collection set includes 12, five-inch Disney character dolls, which were reimagined as toddlers under the guidance of authentic Disney animators and artists. A second set celebrates 11 Disney princesses (plus Pua from Disney’s “Moana!”) that have captured Guests’ hearts for years. Beauty and the Beast “Be Our Guest” Singing Tea Cart Play Set Your little one will always be prepared for an enchanted tea party with this delightful singing tea cart inspired by Disney’s animated classic, “Beauty and the Beast.” Lumiere sings “Be Our Guest” while Mrs. Potts and Chip set the scene for tea time. Incredible Pixar Character-Inspired Toys From “Toy Story” to the colorful cast from “Incredibles 2” and “Cars,” fans of Pixar’s timeless characters will find several action-packed toys this season. Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear does plenty of talking and will light-up. A 10-piece deluxe figurine set from “Incredibles 2” includes the Parr family alongside other familiar faces, while the Incredimobile Remote Control Vehicle is a working replica of the mechanical member of the Incredibles. Mack from “Cars” carries six die-cast cars that pull back with friction motors. Disney Junior-Inspired Toys Hot dog! Kids can create memorable moments with the deluxe Mickey Mouse Clubhouse playset which includes interactive light and sound effects plus action figures. Playtime will be healthy and fresh with Minnie Mouse’s child size Farmer’s Market Stand play set and Brunch Cooking Set. The former includes a cart full of fun produce, products, and play money, while the latter contains 30 pieces of stylish serveware and sweet treats. Super Heroes Assemble Save the day in super hero style with an epic Mega Figuring set featuring 20 iconic characters, each containing detailed sculpting, or with a talking action figure of the friendly neighborhood super hero who has plenty of fighting words and two web slingers to battle his enemies. Millennium Falcon Toy Box Vehicle Part of the Star Wars Toybox collection, the intergalactic smuggler Han Solo and his Wookiee companion Chewbacca are at the helm of their Corellian starship with the Millennium Falcon Play Set. It includes motion activated flight sounds and light up engines. You can find select products in merchandise locations at Disney Parks, but an even bigger selection is found ShopDisney.com. View the full article

Guess what we spotted out in Epcot and the Magic Kingdom today? Select holiday merchandise is on sale! Epcot Christmas Tree Even more exciting? Some of the sale merchandise includes exclusive items from Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! So what’s on sale and where can you find it? Read on to get the scoop! Sale Merch at Epcot These adorable Chip and Dale Festival of the Holidays to-go mugs are 25% off. Find them at shops and stands throughout the park. Epcot Festival of the Holidays Chip and Dale Sale Merch At Mouse Gear, we spotted a buy one, get one 50% off on table top items. Holiday Sale Merch at Epcot If you’ve been looking for an excuse to switch over to Mickey-themed dinnerware for the big family gathering, here’s your chance! Holiday Sale Merch at Epcot Sale Merch at Magic Kingdom Over at Big Top Souvenirs, Mickey’s Star Traders, and The Emporium in Magic Kingdom, we spotted lots of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party merch on sale! Usually you need a party ticket in order to purchase these items, but the Cast Member we spoke with said they’re available to everyone! You’ll find Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party tree ornaments and these super-cute Holiday Cheer mugs with faux whipped cream lids for 25% off. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Sale Items This Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Raglan is $25 (regular price is $35). Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Sale Items At The Emporium on Main Street, there’s more Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party sale merch, including this cute tee and the same ornaments we saw in Big Top Souvenirs. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Sale Items And, just like at Epcot, The Emporium has seasonal table top items at buy one, get one 50% off. Holiday Sale Items at The Emporium Why yes, we do need special holiday Mickey mugs, Mickey pasta bowls, Mickey cereal bowls, thank you very much! Holiday Sale Items at The Emporium This adorable ceramic castle LIGHTS UP and is on sale for for $49.99. Regular price is $64.99. Holiday Sale Items at The Emporium These holiday socks ornaments, the perfect gift for the sock enthusiast in your life, are on sale for $10 each. Regular price is $15.99 per ornament. Holiday Sale Items at The Emporium It’s really hard to resist a light-up bell necklace that actually jingles. We understand. Here’s your chance to get one for just $10. Holiday Sale Items at The Emporium And that’s all the special holiday sale stuff we found today! No word on exactly how long the special prices will last, but if you have your eye on one or more of these items, we’d recommend going ahead and getting them before the big holiday crowds arrive over the next few weeks. Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney World Fun This Holiday Season! The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2018 is a one-of-a-kind resource that will help you get the most out of your holiday vacation at Walt Disney World. Order The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2018 now! It includes over 400 pages of must-have information, including: A full What’s New!! chapter for the 2018 Holiday Season A full Monthly Schedule of Events for the Holiday Season How to avoid the crowds on Disney World’s busiest days (and when Disney World closes their parks due to capacity!) ALL of the events, activities, and holiday additions in Walt Disney World. ALL. OF. THEM. And of course we’ll tell you where to eat! ;-D Order your 2018 Guide now and get 20% off with code PEPPERMINT! As always, our e-Books are 100% guaranteed! If you don’t love it, you get your money back! Do you plan on picking up one of these specially-priced holiday items? Let us know which one in the comments below! Related posts: 21 Myths About Walt Disney World Food DEBUNKED Disney World Mac and Cheese Gallery Join Us on the Cookie Stroll at Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays! View the full article

Happy (Almost!) New Year! If you’re getting ready to visit Walt Disney World anytime in 2019, you may want to consider some of the 2019 merchandise (which is hitting the Disney World shelves now) to commemorate your vacation… 2019 Mickey and Minnie Plush … just like Mickey and Minnie! 2019 Mickey and Minnie Plush Mickey and Minnie are all geared up for what’s to be a HUGE year in Walt Disney World! 2019 Mickey and Minnie Plush HOW CUTE ARE THEY?!? Mickey is MORE than ready to greet the new year in his 2019 shirt, cap, and pullover. 2019 Mickey Plush And he’s got his Mickey Ice Cream Bar to keep him fueled! 2019 Mickey Plush Minnie opts for a Dole Whip instead . 2019 Minnie Plush And she’s also all dolled up with plenty of 2019 apparel, too. 2019 Minnie Plush And if you care to do likewise… 2019 Apparel No matter if your trip is scheduled for the hottest time of the year or the cooler temps, there are plenty of 2019 shirts to fit any season. 2019 T-shirt 2019 T-shirt 2019 T-shirt 2019 T-shirt 2019 Shirt Hoodies complete the adult options. 2019 Hoodie But the little ones haven’t been forgotten, either! 2019 Kids’ Hoodie 2019 Kids’ T-shirt 2019 Mugs and Tumblers Ceramic travel tumblers are also emblazoned with the new year. 2019 Ceramic Tumbler Tumblers for cold beverages are available, too. 2019 Cold Drink Tumbler And here’s another look at the 2019 mugs. 2019 Mug 2019 Mug More 2019 Souvenirs 2019 Snow Globes come in both glass and plastic. 2019 Snow Globe 2019 Snow Globe This 2019 magnet features an attraction poster collage. 2019 Magnet Or you can fill a 2019 frame with your own vacation photo. 2019 Frame Magnet Likewise, you can frame your favorite picture in a 2019 ornament. 2019 Frame Ornament Other 2019 ornaments include the popular Mickey Ear Hat ornament. 2019 Ornament There are other varieties to choose from for trimming your 2019 tree, too! 2019 Ornament 2019 Ornament Transportation souvenir toys also commemorate the year. 2019 Transportation Toys So does this autograph and photo book! 2019 Autograph and Photo Book The annual photo album is out now, too. 2019 Photo Album And you can carry all of it in a 2019 WDW backpack! 2019 Backpack 2019 Calendar Of course, probably the most fitting item of all for the New Year is the 2019 calendar for marking your Disney World vacation and counting down to your trip! 2019 Calendar All four Disney World parks and Disney Springs are represented throughout the 16-month calendar. 2019 Calendar 2019 is going to be a HUGE year for Disney fans! Are you ready ?!? Want to stay informed of ALL the Disney News?? Sign Up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter and don’t miss a thing! Click HERE to subscribe! Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! The 2019 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, is now available for Pre-Order! With more than 750 pages, the 2019 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2019 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2019 to save 25% today! But there’s MORE! Just like all DFB pre-order deals — when you pre-order your DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2019 Edition today for 25% off the cover price, you’ll also get our fully updated 2018 Edition for FREE immediately, so you can start planning TODAY! Use code WDW2019 at check-out for a 25% off the cover price, AND get the 2018 edition for free! Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Are you gearing up for 2019? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: DFB Video: 19 Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do at Disney World DFB Video: How to Survive Disney World Weather (and Hurricane Season) DFB Video: 7 Perfect Food Days in Walt Disney World! View the full article

We’ve been following along as the Liberty Square Riverboat in Magic Kingdom has been doing some test runs on the Rivers of America in Liberty Square. Welcome Back Liberty Belle! And now, after a lengthy refurbishment, it looks like she’ll be carrying guests once again starting this Saturday, December 22nd. Magic Kingdom Times Guide You’ll also find the hours listed for Saturday on the Walt Disney World website. Full steam ahead!! Want to stay informed of ALL the Disney News?? Sign Up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter and don’t miss a thing! Click HERE to subscribe! Are you excited to sail on the Riverboat again? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: TRON Attraction Update (and How Construction Will Affect Other Magic Kingdom Attractions) Magic Kingdom Construction: Club 33 Location in Adventureland and More! News: Figaro Fries Return as “Loaded Plaza Fries” at The Plaza Restaurant View the full article