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A preview of the upcoming Kingdom Hearts III will be set up at Disney Springs this month ahead of the video game’s release next month. The pop-up experience will be in the entertainment complex’s Town Center near the entrance to the Lime Garage as of Dec. 14, according to the official Disney Parks... View the full article

A preview of the upcoming Kingdom Hearts III will be set up at Disney Springs later this month ahead of the video game’s release next month. The pop-up experience will be in the entertainment complex’s Town Center near the entrance to the Lime Garage as of Dec. 14, according to the official Disney... View the full article

Walt Disney World’s Swan and Dolphin Resort has announced a new executive chef to oversee the hotels’ seventeen dining establishments! Stay at the Swan and Dolphin this year! Chef Dan Herman will now lead a team of over 200 as he moves from Executive Sous Chef to Executive Chef! Executive Chef Dan Herman Chef Herman has been a fixture on the food scene at Swan and Dolphin for over twenty years, including work on the Food and Wine Classic that is held at the resort every October! Swan and Dolphin Resort General Manager Fred Sawyers cite the Chef’s “talent and experience” as Herman’s greatest attributes. Have you enjoyed a meal at the Swan and Dolphin Resort? Let us know what you thought! Related posts: Sneak PREVIEW! Must-Eats (And FRIED FUNFETTI OREOS!) at the 2018 Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Exclusive: First Look at Menus and Details from the Swan & Dolphin Food and Wine Classic What’s New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Coronado Springs Resort: May 26, 2018 View the full article

We love us some cupcakes here at the Disney Food Blog (check out our Disney Cupcake Challenge!), and no year in review could possibly be complete without an ode to some of our favorites! So for your delicious viewing pleasure: DFB’s Favorite Cupcakes of 2018! Oh, yes. The year in cupcakes kicked off in high gear with the grandest cupcake of them all: the Rose Gold Cupcake! We found this beauty way back in January at Sunshine Seasons in Epcot’s Future World, and then rose gold treats suddenly began appearing everywhere! Rose Gold Ears Cupcake in Epcot We didn’t hate the rose gold trend. We were in for the ears, the spirit jerseys, and — especially — the cupcakes! This one from Main Street Bakery was a big hit due to all. that. frosting! Rose Gold Cupcake, Main Street Bakery Of course, the only thing better than one Disney food trend in a cupcake is TWO Disney food trends in a cupcake! Thanks to Gasparilla Island Grill at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, we got to enjoy the Rose Gold Unicorn Cupcake! Rose Gold Unicorn, Gasparilla Island Grill The unicorn trend was a big hit on land and at sea, as we saw on the Disney Dream! Vanellope’s Sweets and Treats offered this ah-mazing Unicorn Cupcake with several different colored frostings, two types of sprinkles, and a beautiful golden horn! Unicorn Cupcake Disneyland got in on the Unicorn Cupcake action with this colorful offering at Jolly Holiday. Aside from the obviously cute unicorn design, this cupcake was a winner because of that enormous swirl of frosting! Unicorn Cupcake Spring came to Walt Disney World with a vengeance (and a cupcake!). The Flower Crown Cupcake we picked up at the Main Street Bakery was a beauty! We loved the rock candy-like ears and the raspberry buttercream filling — two awesome surprises! Plus those flowers. Sigh. Flower Crown Cupcake In 2018, Animal Kingdom celebrated 20 years (how is this possible?!) of bringing the natural world to the theme park masses with its Party for the Planet, and that equated to some terrific treats! The Tree of Life Cupcake did a great job of evoking the park icon, and it was classically flavored: vanilla cupcake with vanilla buttercream. 20th Anniversary Tree of Life Cupcake Remember when Millennial Pink was everywhere? For a while, you really couldn’t turn around at Walt Disney World without finding a Millennial Pink cupcake — and we loved this one from Contempo Cafe at Disney’s Contemporary Resort! Millennial Pink Cupcake We also fell head-over-heels for the Monorail Cupcake at Contempo Cafe. Note that while most of the cupcakes at Contempo rotate in and out of the pastry case, we’re seeing this with more regularity! Monorail Cupcake The opening of Toy Story Land was one of the highlights of 2018! And naturally, Disney’s Hollywood Studios brought the playtime all the way into the treats! We loved this colorful Toy Story Land Cupcake (available in various locations in the park!) with its iconic colors and the Luxo Ball front and center! It was great, sugary fuel for all that Slinky Dog Dash-ing! Toy Story Land Cupcake And what’s a gathering of cupcakes from the year without a couple of mermaids? We spotted this gorgeous Mermaid Cupcake at Disney’s BoardWalk Bakery! The chocolate shells take it over-the-top! Mermaid Cupcake at BoardWalk Bakery Meanwhile at Main Street Bakery, we made this Mermaid Cupcake part of our world and loved its sugar cookie tail! And that seafoam frosting was so subtle and pretty! Mermaid Cupcake, Main Street Bakery You might’ve thought that a review of the year’s cupcakes might preclude mentions of Dole Whip — but you’d be mistaken. All-Star Music’s Intermission Food Court had a Dole Whip Cupcake — with a pipette of sweet pineapple sauce! Hello, you tropical beauty! Dole Whip Cupcake with Sauce in Pipette, All-Star Music Speaking of beauties, the Enchanted Rose Cupcake at Gaston’s Tavern in Magic Kingdom captured Belle perfectly — with bright yellow petals to mimic her iconic gown and a vibrant red rose. This is a cupcake for those who prefer the cake to the frosting, but if you’re a Beauty and the Beast fan, you gotta have this one either way! Enchanted Rose Cupcake, Gaston’s Tavern Halloween came early to Magic Kingdom, and we were at the very first Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween party of 2018 (in August!!) to bring you all the spooky eats. The Not-So-Poison Apple Cupcake was an all-day treat throughout the season, and this jumbo cupcake was so good it reigned atop our list of Halloween eats! The Not-So-Poison Apple Cupcake Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Berry Cupcake was another sweet Halloween find — this time at Contempo Cafe! We loved the raspberry filling inside the dyed vanilla cake, but the real star of this cupcake was all the detail on the witch’s hat! Minnie’s Not-so-Scary Berry Cupcake Roaring Fork at Disney’s Wilderness Resort also go into the Halloween spirit with this epic Poison Apple Cupcake! The apple-flavored cupcake was filled with caramel, so it evoked fall in its flavors and spookiness in its appearance! Poison Apple Cupcake at Roaring Fork Also in the fall we spotted the cutest cupcake ever: it’s Mike Wazowski with one I! This masterpiece was discovered in Sunshine Seasons, and it was honestly too cute to eat. The colors, the expression, the details: it was cupcake art at its finest! Mike Wozowski Cupcake This Cheshire Cat Cupcake from All-Star Music was yet another colorful character cupcake that we just couldn’t get enough of! That bright pink and purple frosting was strawberry buttercream, and the classic Cheshire Cat smile was a simple but effective decoration! Cheshire Cat Cupcake, All-Star Music In November, we celebrated Mickey Mouse’s 90th birthday with all the birthday treats we could find! This classy cupcake from Gasparilla Grill at the Grand Floridian was beautiful in its design, from the bright blue birthday hat and tie to the distinctive ears and Mickey-fied wrapper. So much thought went into the styling — we just loved it. Mickey’s 90th Birthday Cupcake, Gasparilla Grill We found this fun Birthday Cake Cupcake at Contempo Cafe (yup — they slay the cupcake game there!). Check out those incredible Mickey balloon-like chocolate pieces! Plus, atop that mountain of cream cheese frosting was a fondant birthday cake! Cake on top of cake = our favorite. Mickey’s Birthday Cake Cupcake, Contempo Cafe Capt. Cook’s at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort also celebrated Mickey with a cupcake on top of its Happy Birthday Cupcake! A tiny fondant cupcake was held by a fondant Mickey hand, and we loved it! Mickey’s Birthday Cupcake, Capt. Cooke’s The holiday season kicked off at Walt Disney World with tons of awesome seasonal eats, and Sunshine Seasons — once again! — brought its A-game! This seasonal Gift Cupcake is red velvet and coated in frosting, but it’s the four gifts on top (Twix bars covered in fondant!) that really take the cake! Seasonal Cupcake at Sunshine Seasons And how could we NOT mention this massive Wreck-It Ralph Sugar Rush pile-o-frosting that is the featured cupcake at Main Street Bakery in Magic Kingdom this holiday season! This one is a vanilla and red velvet cupcake with a very pepperminty frosting, so be prepared for some serious peppermint vibes here! The green hands are krispy treats :-D. Sugar Rush Jumbo Cupcake Finally, this Apple-Cinnamon Wreath Cupcake at the Grand Floridian is a sweet and classic way to say Happy Holidays! Plus it tastes great. Apple-Cinnamon Cupcake, Grand Floridian Yup, reliving the year in cupcakes is a delicious task, and we look forward to bringing you many, many more cupcakes in 2019!! Have you done our Disney Cupcake Challenge? Eat all 14 of our favorite Disney Cupcakes to win! 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. Which of the twelve cupcakes of 2018 did you love the most? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: Review: Lunch at Disney World’s Contempo Cafe in Contemporary Resort Disney Food Challenge: Can You Eat ALL 14 Of Disney’s BEST Cupcakes?! Review: “Millennial Pink” Cupcakes at Walt Disney World! View the full article

Tyler Trent, the Purdue University who inspired many this football season, took home the 2018 Disney Spirit Award on Thursday night during the College Football Awards on ESPN, a tribute to his courageous battle with bone cancer. Trent, the 20-year old native of Carmel, Indiana, was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2015, but he has refused to let the disease get the best of him. In 2017, Trent was determined to start classes at Purdue on time, and after enduring several surgeries, multiple procedures having his pelvis removed 11 days before the fall term, Trent did just that. And despite all the medical treatments, appointments and days when he’s not feeling great, Trent has become a fixture around the Purdue football program – a tribute to his unwavering dedication to his beloved Boilermakers, serving as the team’s honorary captain. Trent’s decision to live life on his own terms has also provided hope, encouragement and optimism to legions of fans of college football because of the courageous manner in which he has faced the disease — determined, unbowed and unafraid. Trent accepted the Disney Spirit Award by Purdue senior quarterback David Blough, thanked everyone present for the opportunity to share his amazing story. “This award is undeserved,” Trent said. “A year ago, I prayed that I would have an opportunity to share my story, and now it’s come true. At the end of the day, there is always a light at end of the tunnel. As long as you rely on your faith, things will work out.” To see the amazing moment when Trent accepted the 2018 Disney Spirit Award, check out this video. View the full article

Just this week, the Kingdom Hearts team announced a first-of-its-kind pop-up experience that will feature a playable demo of the upcoming release (KINGDOM HEARTS III), a special Keyblade exhibit, and artwork from the game. The best part? It will all be located at Disney Springs, in the heart of Town Center, available to guests from December 14, 2018 through January 31, 2019. Confession: I’ve never played Kingdom Hearts. If I was a gamer, I’m sure it would be at the top of this Disney lover’s “must-play” list, but I haven’t picked up a joystick since middle school so until recently, I knew very little about the action role-playing game that has millions of devoted fans. The Kingdom Hearts universe connects Disney characters, stories and worlds into one incredible, imaginative experience. In this third installment – set to release in stores on January 29, 2019 – characters from beloved films like Disney•Pixar’s Toy Story and Monsters, Inc., and Walt Disney Studios’ “Pirates of the Caribbean,” “Big Hero 6,” “Tangled,” “Frozen” and more are brought together in a fantastic adventure that spans the magical worlds of Disney, Pixar and SQUARE ENIX. Here, you’re invited to relive nostalgia and go on new adventures with Sora—the unknowing heir to a spectacular power—and his friends as you battle together to fight off the Heartless invasion using Keyblade transformations, joint attacks with Disney and Pixar characters, Disney character summons, classic mini games, and more. I plan to be one of the first to test out the new game. With a premise that illustrates the power of friendship and the theme of light vs. darkness, it’s the perfect experience to enjoy with your own friends or family. (I’ll be bringing my video-game obsessed better half, though he doesn’t know it yet!) If you fall in love with Kingdom Hearts III, you’ll have the opportunity to pre-order ahead of its release. Check out the full details on the game, and to play a 15-minute preview before your friends, visit the interactive experience at Disney Springs, located next to the Lime Parking Garage in Town Center starting next Friday, December 14, 2018. It’s been over 12 years since Kingdom Hearts II debuted, so I have no doubt there are plenty of eager fans who are thrilled for the newest edition. If you’re one of them and you can’t wait for this special preview, check out the trailer, then let me know which aspects of the game you’re most excited about in the comments below! View the full article

Recently, we asked for your help in naming our newest Masai giraffe calf at Disney’s Animal Kingdom … and today, I’m thrilled to share she now has a name and just officially joined the herd. Please welcome Amira, which means “princess” in Swahili. We are delighted with her name and thank you sincerely for playing a role in this important moment in her life. Amira appears to be an adventurous young calf, and we’re excited to see her explore the savanna. Born on Oct. 1, Amira is already standing at more than five-feet tall. Since her birth, Amira has been bonding and nursing with mom Kenya in a backstage habitat. Amira’s parents, Kenya and George, were chosen to breed through the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and ensures responsible breeding of threatened and endangered species. Amira just officially took her first steps on the Kilimanjaro Safaris savanna and has been exploring and staying close to her mom. Amira is following in the hoofsteps of Aella, a five-month-old female giraffe calf who was also recently born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and made her debut on the Kilimanjaro Safaris savanna in late August. Found primarily in Kenya and Tanzania, Masai giraffe are currently listed as a “vulnerable” species but may soon be moved to endangered status on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. There is grave concern for the future of these beautiful creatures in the wild as they face threats of poaching and habitat loss. It is estimated about 32,000 Masai giraffes are left in the wild, and their population continues to decline at alarming rates. Disney is actively involved in efforts to save Masai giraffes by lending our support to conservation efforts through the Disney Conservation Fund and sending our animal care team to lend their expertise in the field. Earlier this year, several Disney animal care experts went to Uganda to help relocate a herd of giraffes across the Nile River to establish a newer, safer habitat away from oil-drilling fields. Another team went to Kenya to support a giraffe and zebra population census. Visit DisneyAnimals.com to learn more about giraffes and other animals at the Walt Disney World Resort. View the full article

Sneak Peek at 'Beauty and the Beast' Attraction Coming to Tokyo Disneyland View the full article

Today we’re happy to unwrap a brand-new series for the Disney Parks Blog, Holiday 360. Each Friday, you can visit the blog – or the Disney Parks Blog Facebook page – to take in the view of a different holiday offering at theme parks at Walt Disney World or the Disneyland Resort. We’re kicking off the series with a peek inside Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party here at Magic Kingdom Park. The parties take place on select nights throughout the holiday season and the sights here can’t get merrier! Imagine Cinderella Castle wrapped in holiday lights. Main Street, U.S.A. lined with green wreaths and garland. Poinsettias brighten up the park. Take a look at our first 360 above. View the full article

Inside Look at New Disney Parks Technology, Personalized Experiences and More View the full article

Here’s What a Disney Cruise Looks Like From the Eyes of a Child View the full article

Guests at Disneyland Resort will be able to ring in the Year of the Pig during the Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure! Lunar New Year Decor from 2018 — Year of the Dog From January 25 through February 17, 2019, Asian cultures will be celebrated with multicultural performances, fun activities, beautiful decorations, Asian cuisine, extra fun with Disney characters, and themed merchandise. In 2018, Lunar New Year celebrated the Year of the Dog, and 2019 will celebrate the Year of the Pig. Lunar New Year in 2018 In honor of the Year of the Pig, the Three Little Pigs will make a special appearance in the returning “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession,” a parade hosted by Mulan and Mushu. Lunar New Year Celebration ©Disney As mentioned, FOOD will once again be part of the festivities, with Food Booth Marketplaces representing cuisine from China, Korea, and Vietnam. You can read all about the offerings from 2018 here! China Booth at Lunar New Year Three Cup Chicken at China’s Lunar New Year Booth Look for Lunar New Year offerings at Paradise Garden Grill, too! Read about the Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure here! Will you be celebrating Lunar New Year at Disneyland Resort? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: News: Menus Announced for Lunar New Year in Disney California Adventure News: Booth Menu Details for Lunar New Year in Disney California Adventure Review: Disneyland’s Lunar New Year Food Booths! View the full article

A flurry of merry awaits preschoolers during Flurry of Fun, the festive celebration that returns to Disney’s Hollywood Studios this holiday season. This event warms my heart with all the joys of the season. When you combine sparkly décor, sweet treats, dancing lights, magical snowfall, soaring trees and cherished music, it’s no wonder families from around the globe travel to Walt Disney World Resort during this most wonderful time of the year. If you are a preschool family I suggest you be sure to check out these four things at Disney’s Hollywood Studios during this jolly celebration: With two nighttime shows at Disney’s Hollywood Studios you need to plan your night to see them both. My favorite for little ones is Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Kids will surely recognize the animated elves from the ABC hit show “Disney Prep & Landing” during a whimsical projection show with special effects, fireworks and snowfall that adorns the Chinese Theatre. Over on Sunset Boulevard The Hollywood Tower Hotel transforms during Sunset Seasons Greetings with an enchanting projection show featuring Disney characters like Olaf and pals from Toy Story. The loveable snowman Olaf returns in the finale scene serenading holiday tunes in “For The First Time in Forever: A Frozen Singalong.” Kids already love to clap and sing along during this treasured family-friendly sing along, but Olaf’s holiday cameo makes it that much more memorable. Naughty or Nice? Santa has arrived from the North Pole and is ready to hear what’s on your child’s Christmas wish list. St. Nick greets guests daily in a decked out, quiet area inside the Once Upon a Time store from now until Dec. 24. Be sure to bring your camera! Disney chefs have whipped up some cheery desserts just right for little ones. The Prep and Landing gingerbread cupcake is decorated with colorful dancing elves, and there’s no mess with the delicious Mini Shortbread cookies. And all treats are perfect for sharing! So be sure to check out Flurry of Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios this holiday season. Let me know your must do’s with preschoolers. Wishing everyone a warm holiday season! View the full article

This holiday season will shine a little brighter for children in Central Florida, thanks to the efforts of Walt Disney World Resort cast members, who collected nearly 30,000 toys for this year’s U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots drive. There was no better way to continue celebrating the 35th anniversary of our Disney VoluntEARs program than by delivering these special holiday toys and gifts in style. Earlier this season, 35 Disney VoluntEARs, alongside our new Walt Disney World Resort Ambassador team, helped to deliver some of the toys to the local Toys for Tots distribution warehouse … and in true Disney fashion, the toys were delivered in a distinctly Disney way—via Minnie Vans! And that’s not all. Over the next few weeks, our VoluntEARs will continue making magic at the warehouse by helping to sort and distribute the toys to the families of some of our youngest Central Florida neighbors. It’s great to see our Cast Members go to infinity and beyond for our community… but what’s better is knowing every child registered for Toys for Tots this year will receive a gift this holiday season. View the full article

Tonight’s “After Dark” image offers up a beautiful holiday scene at Magic Kingdom Park. Here, the park’s Partners Statue is surrounded by beautiful poinsettias with a glittering Cinderella Castle in the background. You can watch the castle come “to light” every night at the park during the seasonal “A Frozen Holiday Wish” stage show. In this show, royal sisters Anna, Olaf and Kristoff urge Queen Elsa to use her magical powers to present a gift to everyone in the kingdom. The result? She transforms Cinderella Castle into a shimmering ice palace for the holiday season – a sight that truly wows the park’s crowd. Thanks to photographer Mark Willard for the image. View the full article

This Saturday, Dec. 8, share the spirit of the season at the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort by donating a new, unwrapped toy valued at $10 or more to Toys for Tots. The donation bins will be located near the Downtown Disney District LIVE! stage. U.S. Marines will be on hand to collect toy donations from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Disney is a founding sponsor of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys for Tots program. Since then, Disneyland Resort guests and cast members have donated more than 100,000 toys to Toys for Tots! Need a toy to donate? Downtown Disney District will offer a “pop-up shop” of toys for purchase from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Every toy will help make the season brighter for less fortunate children in Orange County, Calif. View the full article

I’ve often heard that the third time’s the charm, and when it comes to The Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail, I’m pretty sure it’s true! Back for its third year at Disney Springs Marketplace, the limited-time holiday tradition now boasts 27 trees, including five new themes – my favorite tree of the trail among them! If you haven’t yet had a chance to visit, you’ve got plenty of time. The experience — which includes falling snow, holiday music and unexpected food and beverage offerings like frozen hot chocolate and specialty cotton candy – will be available through January 6, 2019. If you’re most interested in checking out what’s new, below are the trees to keep an eye out for: Disney Springs: With fun “gift tags” representing the wide array of locations at Disney Springs, this tree offers great inspiration on where to shop and dine! Make sure to save time for both as there’s a lot to discover including recent product releases and brand-new restaurants. (My motto this year is “Gifts for everyone, including yourself!”) Haunted Mansion: While they’re all impressive, I was completely blown away by the detail of the Haunted Mansion tree, my new favorite, complete with a ghostly, glowing bride that will feel familiar to anyone who loves the classic attraction. It’s spooky, and certainly not traditional, but that’s what I like about it – it feels a bit unexpected in the midst of this winter wonderland. Star Wars: Flanked by two smaller trees to represent the “dark side” and the “light side” (one is adorned with red lights, the other with blue), plus a variety of ornaments featuring everything from miniature Jawas to tie fighters to the rebel alliance emblem, the Star Wars-inspired tree is a visual delight for aficionados of the film. No star required, it’s topped by a lightsaber, making it a show-stopper even for casual fans of the franchise, including yours truly. “Toy Story”: Toy Story Land opened earlier this year at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the trailer for “Toy Story 4” has already amassed millions of views. It’s safe to say that interest in “Toy Story” is still strong, so this tree was a perfect addition! In a mash-up that includes Woody’s Sheriff badge, Slinky Dog, little green men, the Pixar ball, garland made of “paper” rings, and more, this tree offers a playful punch that will remind you of your grade school days – at least that’s what it did for me! The Walt Disney World Theme Parks: Look for icons representing each of the four Walt Disney World Theme Parks (Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios) and marvel at the miniature monorail circling the tree. Colorful flare at the top of the tree gave me visions of our spectacular fireworks displays, which has me thinking that I need to plan a mid-December visit to Magic Kingdom Park to see “Holiday Wishes” – one of my favorite shows! New this year, look for lanterns on each tree that showcase featured ornaments available for purchase at the nearby Disney’s Days of Christmas shop, available while supplies last. Also take note of the signage on the walls – they offer up clever nods to many of the beloved stories, attractions and characters represented in the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail. For the ultimate visit, wear your Disney Jingle Bell Light Up Holiday necklace as you meander through the experience – with multiple light settings, you’ll be as festive as the fully decorated trees. (Bonus: Day or night, it’s a great conversation starter; I’m speaking from experience here!) Find the necklace at World of Disney or other select locations throughout Walt Disney World Resort. Have you had a chance to visit the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail yet this season? If so, let me know which tree is your favorite in the comments below – I’d love to know! View the full article

We have exciting news today! The dates for the 2019 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival have been announced! The Festival will run from March 1 through April 23, 2019! Get ready for the 2019 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival! Expanding to eight weeks, the Festival will host more than a dozen Festival Marketplaces serving California-inspired dishes and beverages. White cheddar lager soup topped with bacon, served in a mini Boudin sourdough boule The 2019 Festival will once again feature live entertainment, family-friendly seminars, and cooking demonstrations. And, new for 2019, limited-time, Festival-inspired menu items will be served at restaurants throughout Disney California Adventure! And Disney has announced that the Sip and Savor Pass will be available for guests who wish to try a wide variety of dishes. (You can read about how this program is currently working during the 2018 Disney California Adventure Festival of Holidays here.) We can’t wait to share more details as they’re announced! Be sure to check our 2019 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival page for the most up-to-date information! LAStyle Marketplace Booth And, mark your calendars for March 1 through April 23, 2019 for the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival! CLICK HERE TO SEE ALL THE FOOD PHOTOS FROM THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL! Many items will be repeated in 2019! Are you making plans to attend the 2019 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival? Let us know with a comment! Related posts: Review: BBQ Crunch Dog and Fried Bananas at Award Wieners in Disney California Adventure News: Guardians of the Galaxy Eats and More at Disney California Adventure Sneak Pre-BOO! Halloween Time in Disneyland Begins September 7th! View the full article

The 2019 Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival will run from March 6-June 3, 2019. The event will bring back its signature topiary displays, Outdoor Kitchens, and more! Epcot Flower and Garden Festival One big part of the “and more” is the popular Garden Rocks Concert Series. And its about to get even bigger because — as previously announced — the Garden Rocks concerts will expand to seven days a week for 2019! Popular bands spanning the decades take the stage at the American Gardens Theater in the American Adventure Pavilion in Epcot to share some of their greatest hits with the crowds! American Gardens Theatre These concerts are free with Epcot admission, and take place three times per evening (5:30pm, 6:45pm, 8:00pm), nightly throughout the Festival. And today, we have the list of performing artists for the series! Please note that while the list of dates is not yet completely filled in, many of you may be able to start your planning now if you know your trip dates! 2019 Garden Rocks Concert Lineup So Far March 9-10: Glass Tiger “Don’t Forget Me (When I’m Gone)” March 17-20: Simple Plan “Welcome to My Life” March 28-29: Berlin featuring Terri Nunn “Take My Breath Away” March 30-31: The Smithereens (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Top of the Pops” April 3-4: Christopher Cross (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Sailing” April 5-7: The Spinners “Working My Way Back to You” April 12-13: Sister Sledge (NEW to Garden Rocks) “We Are Family” April 17-19: Sister Hazel (NEW to Garden Rocks) “All For You” April 20-21: Steven Curtis Chapman (NEW) “Cinderella” April 22-23: TobyMac (NEW) “The Elements” April 24-26: Lonestar “Amazed” April 27-30: The Orchestra starring former members of ELO “Evil Woman” May 1-4: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry VIII I Am” May 5-7: Don Felder, Formerly of the Eagles “Hotel California” May 20-21: Colin Hay of Men at Work (NEW) “Who Can It Be Now?” 2019 Garden Rocks Dining Package Information and Booking Date Garden Rocks Dining Packages allow guests to enjoy guaranteed concert seating paired with breakfast, lunch or dinner at a participating Epcot restaurant. Advance Dining Reservations for the concert dining packages will open on December 13th and will be available online or by calling 407-WDW-DINE. Though the full list of restaurants and prices has not yet been revealed, you can check out the restaurants from 2018 to get an idea of which locations might be participating. Visit our Garden Rocks Concert Series Page here! And find more information for the 2019 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival here! 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 planning on going to the 2019 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: News! Dates Announced for the 2018 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival 2019 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Dates and Details Announced! News! FULL BOOTH MENUS for 2017 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, PLUS Garden Rocks Concert Series, and MORE View the full article

A partial lineup for Disney World’s Garden Rocks concert series, a musical element of the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, has been announced. For the first time, the performances will be seven days a week, bringing the total number of concerts to 270 next spring. Among the Garden... View the full article

JAMBO, EVERYONE! It’s time to send your taste buds on a wild safari through Disney’s Animal Kingdom with a yummy limited-time Tasting Sampler! With this new offering, you can taste your way around Disney’s Animal Kingdom and enjoy preferred seating for the second showing of the breathtaking “Rivers of Light” nighttime show. When you purchase the Tasting Sampler, you’ll receive a pre-loaded $35 digital gift card via email for only $30! This gift card will contain a bar code that can be added to your digital wallet and scanned at over 40 outdoor carts and kiosks throughout the park. You can then enjoy a delicious variety of savory and sweet plates and even specialty alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages of your choosing! In addition, during this limited time, you’ll be able to try out a few new offerings such as Shrimp Curry and Chicken Curry Bowls at Kusafiri Bakery, House-smoked Pastrami Sliders at Smiling Crocodile, Buffalo Chicken Chips at Trilo-Bites, Pulled Pork or Shrimp Mac and Cheese plates at Eight Spoon Cafe, Korean Fiery Beef Sliders and Tuna Bao at Caravan Road, and more! These items will only be available from Dec. 22 – Jan. 2. You can also choose some of the park’s regular offerings such as popcorn, glazed nuts, craft beer, and ice cream to name a few. Why not get a refreshing Pineapple Dole Whip Float at Tamu Tamu or snack on some Pineapple Lumpia at Pongu Pongu? Or maybe get a Chili Cheese Dog at Dino Diner or some Seasoned Fries at Mister Kamal’s? The possibilities are ENDLESS! To find out about all the participating locations, you can pick up a map at either Creature Comforts or Isle of Java. The Tasting Sampler is available online starting today for $30 per package. Each purchase includes a $35 digital gift card that can be used at select food & beverage carts and kiosks at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park from Dec. 22, 2018 to January 2, 2019. The package also includes preferred seating for one person per gift card for the second showing of “Rivers of Light” on the night that you select during that timeframe. But remember, this experience can only be purchased online or by calling 407 WDW-DINE or 407 939-3463 and must be purchased at least 24 hours prior to arriving at the park. For more information and to purchase the Tasting Sampler, visit DisneyWorld.com/TastingSampler today! DISCLAIMER: The digital gift card that comes with the Disney’s Animal Kingdom Tasting Sampler may only be used for food and beverage purchases at select carts and kiosks throughout Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It cannot be used at quick-service or table-service restaurants and cannot be reloaded at any time. A limited number of Tasting Samplers will be available for each day. View the full article

We recently shared that the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival will return to Walt Disney World Resort March 6-June 3, 2019 with a wide selection of delectable bites at outdoor kitchens and dozens of Disney-themed topiaries blooming around the park. New in 2019, the festival’s Garden Rocks Concert Series will expand to seven days a week, with a total of 270 concerts spanning multiple genres over the course of the 90-day event. We’re excited to share part of the rocking line-up for the 2019 Garden Rocks Concert Series! Over the coming weeks, more artists will be announced on the Disney Parks Blog. Returning favorites like The Spinners and Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone will be joined by brand new artists like TobyMac, Steven Curtis Chapman and Colin Hay of Men at Work for what is sure to be the best year of Garden Rocks concerts yet. March 9-10: Glass Tiger “Don’t Forget Me (When I’m Gone)” March 17-20: Simple Plan “Welcome to My Life” March 28-29: Berlin featuring Terri Nunn “Take My Breath Away” March 30-31: The Smithereens (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Top of the Pops” April 3-4: Christopher Cross (NEW to Garden Rocks) “Sailing” April 5-7: The Spinners “Working My Way Back to You” April 12-13: Sister Sledge (NEW to Garden Rocks) “We Are Family” April 17-19: Sister Hazel (NEW to Garden Rocks) “All For You” April 20-21: Steven Curtis Chapman (NEW) “Cinderella” April 22-23: TobyMac (NEW) “The Elements” April 24-26: Lonestar “Amazed” April 27-30: The Orchestra starring former members of ELO “Evil Woman” May 1-4: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone “I’m Henry VIII I Am” May 5-7: Don Felder, Formerly of the Eagles “Hotel California” May 20-21: Colin Hay of Men at Work (NEW) “Who Can It Be Now?” Garden Rocks concert performances take place at 5:30 p.m., 6:45 p.m., and 8:00 p.m. each night of the festival and are included in regular park admission. Guests can enjoy guaranteed concert seating by reserving a Garden Rocks Dining Package and enjoying breakfast, lunch or dinner at select Epcot restaurants. Reservations for concert dining packages open Dec. 13. For more info or to make a reservation, call 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) or visit FreshEpcot.com. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog as more acts will be added to the Garden Rocks Concert Series line up soon! View the full article

Two exciting events are returning to the Disneyland Resort in early 2019 — Lunar New Year and Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival! Here’s what you need to know to start planning your visit: Lunar New Year Ring in the Year of the Pig with 24 days of Lunar New Year celebrations at Disney California Adventure park, Jan. 25 to Feb. 17. A joyous celebration of Asian cultures, Lunar New Year welcomes guests of all ages to commemorate traditions with beloved Disney characters, and welcome another year of good fortune. Enjoy multicultural performances, fun-filled activities, beautiful décor, delicious cuisine and themed merchandise. One of the highlights is “Mulan’s Lunar New Year Procession,” a bright and bold parade hosted by Mulan and her faithful dragon, Mushu. This year, the parade will feature the Three Little Pigs as a special treat for the Year of the Pig. Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival The popular culinary festival expands to eight weeks, March 1 to April 23. Guests will explore California-inspired cuisine and beverages, plus live entertainment, family-friendly seminars and cooking demonstrations. Kids can even join the fun with hands-on “cooking” experiences that end with a tasty surprise. Foodies will broaden their palettes at more than a dozen mouthwatering Festival Marketplaces, featuring small plates, specialty wines and craft beers. To taste your way through the festival, the Sip and Savor Pass will be available for all guests looking to try a variety of dishes. In addition, limited-time, Festival-inspired menu items will be served at restaurants throughout Disney California Adventure park. To help jump-start your vacation planning, take advantage of the limited-time ticket offer, available to book now! For a limited time in 2019, guests can visit a Disneyland Resort theme park for $70 per day with the purchase of a three-day, one-park per day ticket.* The ticket offer is available for purchase online today, and may be used for visits Jan. 7 through May 23, 2019 (blockout dates of April 14-22 apply). Four- and five-day ticket options, as well as Park Hopper tickets are also available. Book through May 18, 2019. *Tickets valid for use beginning Jan. 7, 2019 and expire 13 days after the first day of use or on May 23, 2019, whichever occurs first. Each day of use constitutes one full day of use. May purchase up to 8 tickets per person per day. Tickets are nonrefundable, may not be sold or transferred for commercial use and exclude activities/events separately priced. Offer may not be combined with other ticket discounts or promotions. Subject to capacity, restrictions and change without notice. View the full article

Hello, friends! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re letting you in on some of the worst Disney World advice you’ll get! Should you always stay in a Disney World Resort? Planning a Disney World vacation can be somewhat overwhelming, so it’s only natural to seek advice throughout the process. But the truth of the matter is that there are two sides to just about every piece of advice. And what may be the absolute best decision for one group may not be the best for another. So we’re sharing our thoughts on some common bits of advice that get passed around regarding Disney World and when the advice might (or might not) work 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: What’s your favorite piece of Disney advice? Related posts: DFB Video: How to OUTSMART the Crowds in Disney World DFB Video: Pros and Cons of Disney World Transportation DFB Video: Disney World Bathrooms! (Volume I) View the full article

We’re thrilled to share with you a sneak peek at the new Enchanted Tale of “Beauty and the Beast” attraction coming to Tokyo Disneyland as part of a large-scale development plan bringing new attractions, entertainment, shopping and dining to the park in spring 2020. Earlier today, the resort shared this inside look along with announcing the names of the many new offerings guests can soon enjoy at Tokyo Disneyland. The centerpiece of a new area themed to “Beauty and the Beast” in Fantasyland, Beauty and the Beast Castle will tower nearly 98 feet above the surrounding area and house the Enchanted Tale of Beauty and the Beast, a new attraction inviting guests to step into the animated film aboard ride vehicles that dance in rhythm to the film’s music. The nearby Village Shoppes and La Taverne de Gaston will further allow guests to explore the world of the film and enjoy the ambience of Belle’s village. Also opening in the new area, the Fantasyland Forest Theatre will feature signature Disney entertainment in a dedicated indoor performance space. Productions featuring Disney characters and music are sure to delight guests of all ages in the 1,500-seat storybook theater. Over in Tomorrowland, The Happy Ride with Baymax attraction will celebrate the “Big Hero 6” fan-favorite, as guests join their own personal healthcare companion for an exciting musical whip ride set to swing them round and round. A new shop themed to outer space, The Big Pop, will offer popcorn in multiple flavors, along with Tokyo Disneyland’s popular popcorn buckets. Located in Toontown, Minnie’s Style Studio will be the first Disney character greeting location in Tokyo Disneyland where guests can meet Minnie Mouse, dressed in her own fashionable creations to say hello and take photos. All of these new offerings will debut in spring 2020 as part of the resort’s large-scale expansion plan. In addition to nearly doubling the size of Fantasyland at Tokyo Disneyland, Imagineers are hard at work on an eighth themed port at Tokyo DisneySea, celebrating the stories of Frozen, Tangled and Peter Pan and connecting to a new deluxe hotel with a one-of-a-kind luxury wing. View the full article