Disney4me

In our Disney Doodle series, different Disney artists take turns imagining what different Disney characters would do or see first if they had the chance to visit a Disney Park. In today’s Disney Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what Cinderella and Prince Charming would do if they could visit Magic Kingdom Park. According to Ashley, she found inspiration for this design in the lovely lights that adorn Cinderella Castle this time of year. “Cinderella loves the magic of the holidays,” she said. “So it’s easy to imagine her and Prince Charming sharing a romantic waltz under the holiday lights.” View the full article

Disney World Annual Passholders will soon have access to a special shopping event at Pandora in Animal Kingdom. On December 9, 2018 from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM, guests with a valid Annual Pass* can save 20% off a Banshee at Windtraders in Pandora. Banshees in Windtraders The regular price for a Banshee is $59.99. (Note that the discount does not apply to special edition or plush banshees.) Banshee in Windtraders Be sure that your Annual Pass is valid for attending (*for instance, Weekday Select Annual Passholders should note that the event takes place on Sunday). The park officially opens to guests at 9:00 AM, which is when the Pandora attractions will, of course, open as well. 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. Would you like to adopt a Banshee? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: Eat at Satu’li Canteen in Animal Kingdom’s Pandora and Get a Special Coupon News! New Restaurants Revealed for Pandora — The World of Avatar, in Disney’s Animal Kingdom News: Full Menu for Pongu Pongu, and DFB’s “Eat This, Not That” Video for Animal Kingdom’s Pandora! View the full article

A brand new (and limited time) way to enjoy cuisine around Disney World’s Animal Kingdom will debut at the park on December 22, 2018 with the Animal Kingdom Tasting Sampler! Animal Kingdom’s Tree of Life For the price of $30, guests will receive a $35 digital value card to redeem for select food and beverage items around the park (yep! A $5 bonus!). Then, at the end of the day, participating guests enjoy preferred seating for the second showing of Rivers of Light! Rivers of Light Tasting size eats and drinks will be available at more than 40 food-and-beverage kiosks and carts throughout the park. Items may include the following: Africa: Chicken curry bowl, Dole Whip float and craft beer selections Discovery Island: Meatball with polenta, mac & cheese with pulled pork or shrimp, house-smoked pastrami slider and apple cider donut holes Pandora: Pineapple lumpia, pretzels and select beverages Asia: Tuna bao, Korean beef slider, fried dumplings, margaritas and a beer flight Dinoland U.S.A.: Corn chip pie, Buffalo chicken chips, milkshakes and a holiday sundae Other Locations: Additional carts are available throughout the park Pongu Lumpia Participating guests may pick up a map at Creature Comforts of Isle of Java. (Note: The digital value card cannot be used at Table-Service Restaurants and Quick-Service Restaurants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park.) Reserved seating will be available for participants at the second showing of the Rivers of Light spectacular for the evening. Rivers of Light Projections At time of publishing, this offering is on sale for December 22, 2018 through January 2, 2019, and valid theme park admission is required. Per the Disney World website: “You can purchase online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. Advance purchase is required and will not be available the day of use. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call. The day after you purchase this tasting sampler, you’ll receive an email containing your digital value card. If you purchased multiple tasting samplers during a single reservation / transaction, the value of your purchase will be combined and reflected in a single digital value card. The email will be sent to your primary email address on file.” So, interested guests may learn more and book the Animal Kingdom Tasting Sampler here! It looks like there will be more food to enjoy at Animal Kingdom very soon, so stay tuned for more details here on DFB!! 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 interested in the Animal Kingdom Tasting Sampler? Please let us know with a comment below! Related posts: What’s New Around Walt Disney World: October 20, 2016 News: Pandora — The World of AVATAR Opens May 27th in Disney’s Animal Kingdom FULL Review: The New Satu’li Canteen in Animal Kingdom’s Pandora — The World of AVATAR View the full article

Lucky-in-love types may want to register in a contest with a prize that’s worthy of a Disney princess. The winner lands a wedding in front of Beast’s castle – a.k.a. Be Our Guest restaurant -- inside Magic Kingdom theme park. The giveaway will benefit Give Kids the World Village, a charity in Kissimmee. ... View the full article

“Mele Kalikimaka is the thing to say on a bright Hawaiian Christmas day….” I love singing this song at Christmas, and today it especially gets me excited to be able to share all the amazing holiday offerings coming to Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in December. I am honestly not sure what I’m most excited about — with a “Kakamora” inspired Gingerbread House or a yummy Candy Cane Mickey Macaroon or even a chance on Christmas Eve to tell Aloha Santa what I want under my palm tree! There are so many ways to celebrate the holidays and create magical memories at Aulani Resort! If you are visiting soon or even planning for next year, Aulani Resort guests may look forward to classic holiday fare at the restaurants featuring local specialties, or feast at a lavish Hawaiian-inspired Christmas Day Dinner and celebration in our Kaiona Ballroom. And for guests staying in Aulani, A Disney Vacation Club Resort Villas, you can also order and enjoy a private dinner with friends and family in the comfort of your villa! Around the resort, on select dates, guests may also take part in creating unforgettable holiday memories with special holiday events, such as Holiday Caroling with our carolers strolling around the resort, or Keiki Holiday Cookie Decorating at Aunty’s Beach House, and there’s even a chance to learn how to make your own gingerbread house, or indulge in one of the many Holiday treats available for purchase, including Housemade Mickey and Minnie Gingerbread Cookies, Holiday Candy Apples, or even Peppermint Brownies! Yum! If you’re lucky enough to be at Aulani Resort the week of Christmas, you may also look forward to that Aloha Santa visit I mentioned on Dec. 24 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Aunty’s Beach House, Holiday Cheer on the Kipuka Lawn from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. with complimentary hot cocoa and holiday cookies, and a special Holiday ‘Ohana Disney Movie Night on the Halawai Lawn. There is even Nordic art on display this time of year that is infused with hints of Disney Hawaiian iconography and the now classic Mele Kalikimaka tagline — which is also on some really adorable Aulani Resort Holiday merchandise! And, of course, now throughout the month of December you can enjoy the Disney Characters in their fun Holiday-inspired attire and a very special Aulani Gingerbread House “A Kakamora Holiday” on display at Makahiki! Most importantly, we wish you all “Aloha Kalikimaka me ka Hape Nuia” — Merry Christmas together with a Happy New Year! Note: In printed materials, Aulani Resort uses the contemporary spelling of Hawaiian words, which includes marks such as the kahako (macron). Because these marks do not often display correctly in electronic formats, including the text of the Disney Parks Blog, we’ve omitted them. View the full article

In commemoration of Walt Disney’s birthday, today’s Walk in the Park visits some of the spots Walt loved at Disneyland park. Walt was famous for his early morning strolls through Disneyland park. He’d inspect, make notes, chat-up the cast, and refine his magic kingdom every chance he got. This ritual was immortalized in an iconic photographed as Walt strolled through the arches of Sleeping Beauty Castle. The picture came to be known as “Footsteps.” See my take on “Footsteps” above. Walt, ever the railroad enthusiast, was often photographed at the controls of a steam engine. That legacy lives on aboard the Disneyland Railroad. I love that there’s a framed photograph of Walt and his wife, Lillian, forever circling the park in the comfort of their custom passenger car: Lilly Belle. Walt once said: “I think what I want Disneyland to be most of all is a happy place–a place where adults and children can experience together some of the wonders of life, of adventure, and feel better because of it.” You feel as if that dream has been actualized as you watch families kick off their Disney day along Main Street, U.S.A. Walt had an apartment constructed for himself atop the Main Street Fire Station. Cast knew the boss was around when they saw the lamp lit in his apartment window. We have kept that lamp lit since the day he passed as a reminder that Walt is always around and, for the holidays, that lamp has been replaced by a lit Christmas tree. Today, Disneyland Resort continues to grow and evolve, delivering joy to guests from around the world—all because Walt Disney had a grand vision to make his dream a reality. View the full article

Our latest visit to Disney World saw us adding one more tumbler to our Disney Parks Starbucks Tumblers Collection. This time we spotted the brand new Hollywood Studios Starbucks Tumbler in Trolley Car Cafe. Starbucks Hollywood Studios Tumbler This tumbler is jam packed with images and references to rides and attractions in the park, just like the designs on the Epcot and Animal Kingdom versions of the tumbler in this collection. There’s of course the cutest Sorcerer we know, Sorcerer Mickey, on there along with references to the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, Star Wars, and Fantasmic nighttime show. Starbucks Hollywood Studios Tumbler Plus, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Toy Story Land, Slinky Dog Dash, and Toy Story Mania! are featured. And, that doesn’t include the Mickey Ears, Mickey Ice Cream Bar, Movie Clapperboard, film strip, stars, and art nouveau hints all over the design! Starbucks Hollywood Studios Tumbler The tumbler is topped off with a maroon lid that matches the prominent color in the design on the tumbler. Starbucks Hollywood Studios Tumbler Have you found all four of the parks’ tumblers yet? Let us know in the comments below! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! 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. Related posts: Spotted: 2015 Starbucks Disney Parks Holiday Souvenir Mug What’s New Around Walt Disney World: February 28, 2017 Rainbow Treats at Walt Disney World View the full article

Have you ever noticed the phrases “be our guest” and “we’re the best” rhyme? Well it’s no coincidence that Disney Signature Experiences’ array of vacation options, including both ocean and river cruises, continue to be recognized as the best by media. Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney were both recognized as “Best for Families” in the 11th annual Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards. The global team of Cruise Critic editors recognize the top companies in the cruise industry based on first-hand experience and industry knowledge. This is Disney Cruise Line’s fifth year to be recognized with this award and Adventures by Disney’s third consecutive win! You may have also heard that Newsweek, one of America’s most iconic news magazines, also named Disney Cruise Line as No. 1 overall in its inaugural 2019 list of America’s Best Companies for Customer Service. Newsweek based its ranking on a survey of more than 20,000 U.S. customers with criteria such as customer focus and likelihood of recommending the service. Disney Cruise Line began creating magical vacations for families in 1998 with its first ship, the Disney Magic and has since added the Disney Wonder, the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy. Three more ships are on the way in 2021, 2022 and 2023. Adventures by Disney provides immersive, hassle-free group guided vacation experiences to destinations on six continents, including river cruises within Europe. At Disney Signature Experiences, these awards means so much to us since they demonstrate the dedication of our Cast and Crew to creating lifelong memories for families around the world. View the full article

Towering 7 ½ feet high, 12 feet wide and surrounded by intricately sweet details, the gingerbread house at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort is quite a delight and a must-see in the main lobby. Now, there is a brand new offering for guests staying at the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort: A Grand Gingerbread House Experience, where you can build your own miniature version to take home. First, let’s look at the magnificent lobby display in the video below: Here’s what it took to build this masterpiece: 600 pounds of gingerbread 250 pounds of fondant 12 gallons of egg whites 3.5 gallons of lemon juice 1 pound of “pixie dust” glitter 16 bakers 6 craftsmen (carpenters and draftsmen) 2 electricians 1,225 cast member hours to design and craft 1,400 hours to bake edible elements Next, it’s your turn! A Grand Gingerbread House Experience is a special offering for hotel guests to work with our talented pastry chefs who crafted the iconic gingerbread house on display. This hands-on workshop is great holiday fun for the whole family, complete with hot cocoa and cookies to enjoy, as well as your miniature version to take home! The class takes place in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa from 2-3:30 p.m. on Dec. 5, 11, 20, 21, 22 and 23. For the workshop details, pricing information and to register for this experience, hotel guests may call Guest Services at 714-635-2300 (Option 5) or visit the Guest Services Desk. View the full article

#ShareYourEars: Disney Donates US $3 Million to Make-A-Wish View the full article

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ is serving up some new dishes with southern style! Chef Art Smith Under Starters, new on the menu are Hot Legs! Four hand-breaded chicken legs (tossed in Homecomin’s Fresno pepper hot sauce) are served lollipop-style. These take the place of the Ham and Cheese Biscuits. A new Cuban Sandwich with house-smoked pork, shaved country ham, house made pickles and Swiss Cheese is available under “Buns & Such,” taking the place of the Barbecue Pork Bun. Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Moving on to “Salads & Such,” a winter Farmhouse Salad has replaced the Spinach & Kale Chopped Salad. The new salad is topped with house-smoked turkey, pecan-smoked bacon, dried cranberries, roasted butternut squash, apples, red onions, gorgonzola cheese and sugared pecans with creamy poppy seed dressing. And under Main Plates, the Grilled Pork Chop is a char-grilled Porterhouse pork chop served with warm tomato-bacon jam, mashed potatoes, and French green beans, replacing the Meatloaf. Finally, under the a la carte Sides, you’ll see that Roasted Butternut Squash has taken the place of the Carrot Souffle. No matter which item you order from the menu, don’t miss the chance to follow it up with a slice of the Chef’s Shine Cake! Shine Cake Several items from Homecomin’ have made our EAT THIS in Disney Springs list! Check them out in our DFB YouTube Video below!  Have you eaten at Homecomin’? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: Full Review: Dinner at Morimoto Asia in Disney World’s Disney Springs Review: New Late Night Menu and Forbidden Lounge at Morimoto Asia in Disney Springs New DFB Video: EAT THIS at Disney Springs Part 1 View the full article

Get ready to customize your pizza once again at Napolini in Disneyland’s Downtown Disney District! This grab-and-go location next to Naples Ristorante is now reopen after a refurbishment. Napolini ©Disney Sandwiches, salads, and Italian desserts and up for grabs, but the spotlight is on Build-Your-Own Pizzas. Topping options include Italian sausage, Parma ham, roasted chicken, pepperoni, smoked provolone, broccolini, arugula, black and green olives, artichokes, roasted red peppers and pineapple, among others. Napolini ©Disney If you’d rather go with a Napolini Signature Pizza, notable options include the Brinner (Breakfast and Dinner) Pizza topped with Fontina, mozzarella, potato, bacon, and egg and the Vesuvio which includes Calabrian Chili Pepper among the toppings. California, Capri, Amalfi, and Roman are also choices. Napolini ©Disney Note that Naples Ristorante continues a renovation of its own (with the upstairs remaining open for service), and will reveal a new menu and look soon, so stay tuned! And stay tuned for all sorts of dining changes that continue on in Disneyland… you can start by watching our DFB YouTube Video! Will you be visiting the renovated Napolini? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: Rumor: Sprinkles Coming to Disneyland’s Downtown Disney? News: Sprinkles Now Open in Disneyland’s Downtown Disney Review: The Brand New Disneyland Splitsville Luxury Lanes! View the full article

Savor great tasting Neopolitan-style pizza at the new Napolini in Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort! Napolini’s create-your-own pizzas, delicious sandwiches, fresh salads and Italian desserts are all molto delizioso! Come visit this newly-renovated pizzeria and customize your own pizza, enjoy an Italian bottled soda and relax on the patio. Build Your Own Pizzas Choose from various types of toppings, including Italian sausage, Parma ham, roasted chicken, pepperoni, smoked provolone, broccolini, arugula, black and green olives, artichokes, roasted red peppers and pineapple, to name a few. Napolini Signature Pizzas Or, leave it to Napolini to make one of its six signature pizzas: California: chicken, BBQ sauce, red onions, cilantro, mozzarella, smoked gouda Capri: shrimp, mozzarella, fontina, lemon pesto sauce Amalfi: D.O.C. mozzarella buffalo, tomato san marzano, basil, black olives Roman: tomato, mozzarella, porchetta, onions, cherry peppers Vesuvio: mozzarella, tomato, Calabrian chili pepper, green olives, anchovies Brinner: fontina, mozzarella, potato, bacon, egg Whichever you choose, watch as the pizza maker kneads fresh dough and places your perfect pie in wood-burning ovens. Napolini’s sister restaurant, Naples Ristorante e Bar, is open upstairs for service, with the final phase of its renovations and new menu to be unveiled soon. These dynamic developments are part of the ongoing Downtown Disney District promenade-wide transformation. Multiple new venues opened this year, including Splitsville Luxury Lanes, The Disney Dress Shop, Salt & Straw scoop shop, the reimagined World of Disney store, plus more to come with Ballast Point brewery and Black Tap Craft Burgers and Shakes, coming soon! View the full article

Hi, there! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re talking about six things that are way better in Disneyland than in Disney World! Hand Dipped Corn Dog in Disneyland Disneyland and Walt Disney World are both magical places that so many of us love. And while they do share some similarities, they are both distinct destinations with many differences between the two. Today we’re focusing on Disneyland, and we’re sharing six things we think are better in Disneyland than in Disney World in our latest DFB YouTube Video! (And P.S. We’d love to hear what you think, too!) 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: Have you visited both Disneyland and Disney World? If so, what were some differences you noticed? Related posts: DFB Video: Pixar Fest Must-Eats in Disneyland! DFB Video: The Newest Disneyland Must-Eat Snacks! DFB Video: 8 Disneyland Eats You’ll Never Miss Again! View the full article

Thanks to the hundreds of thousands of Disney fans who took part in this year’s #ShareYourEars campaign celebrating 90 years of Mickey, Disney is donating more than US $2 million to Make-A-Wish® to help grant even more wishes! We’ve had so much fun looking at all of the amazing “ear photos” you’ve shared! Taken with kids and families, friends and pets, at “ear walls,” on cruise ships and more – your photos have helped make a difference in the lives of children and families around the world. Since 1980, Disney has helped Make-A-Wish grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses and their families. Currently, nearly 10,000 Disney wishes are granted every year with Make-A-Wish, helping wish kids replace fear with confidence, sadness with joy and anxiety with hope. For kids like Quintino and their families, these magical memories are truly treasured. Thank you all for believing in the power of wishes and sharing your ears! What an amazing way to celebrate Mickey’s birthday! #ShareYourEars is part of the Disney Team of Heroes philanthropic initiative and outreach program to deliver comfort and inspiration to families around the world. In March 2018, The Walt Disney Company made a five-year, US $100 million commitment to reinvent the patient and family experience in children’s hospitals and is working with children’s wish-granting organizations around the world to fulfill wishes for children facing critical illnesses. Learn more at ShareYourEars.org. View the full article

The holidays will soon be upon us and that means that we are just one Santa visit away from the 15th annual Festival Disney music competition at Walt Disney World Resort! If you’re still looking for the perfect gift for the young performers in your life, why not surprise them with an experience where they can take their skills from minor to major? With a feedback session from nationally-recognized collegiate adjudicators and a splashy awards ceremony, Festival Disney is the gift that keeps on giving as performers create lifelong memories with ensembles from around the globe. Who is eligible to receive this gift of grandeur? Middle and high school concert bands, jazz ensembles, orchestras, vocal ensembles or show choirs can participate for the chance to earn “Best in Class,” as well as Gold, Silver and Bronze awards for their pitch-perfect performance. There really is no better way to surprise your aspiring performers and show that you appreciate them this holiday season than with an experience that they will cherish for a lifetime. After getting their awards, they can celebrate performance excellence with the latest experiences, creating the perfect melody! From Mickey & Minnie’s Surprise Celebration at Magic Kingdom Park to The Incredibles and Pixar pals taking over Disney’s Hollywood Studios, now more than ever, Walt Disney World Resort is the place to celebrate! So, trade in those stuffed stockings for symphonic studies when Festival Disney takes centerstage on select weekends throughout March, April and May with the best availability in early March and May. For more information on this music festival with character, visit FestivalDisney.com and be sure to sign up for our e-newsletter for the latest news and updates on all things Disney Youth Programs. View the full article

Usually our Disneyland correspondent Heather (kon’nichiwa, @DiningInDisney) brings us treats and sights from California’s Disneyland Resort, but today, she’s giving us a peek at a Disney Parks favorite… from the other side of the planet! It’s Chinese Chili Popcorn from Tokyo Disney! Chinese Chili Popcorn Yup, Disney popcorn is a thing all over the world — and we love a unique popcorn flavor! Thankfully, so does Heather, so she was all over this brand new flavor! FYI: Tokyo Disney also has cute popcorn carts. Chinese Chili Popcorn Chinese Chili Popcorn debuted on the day Heather found it — and it was pure serendipity that she did! (Honest! She didn’t travel to Japan just for unique Disney popcorn. Well, we’re pretty sure she didn’t.) And since Tokyo Disney is celebrating 35 years, a picture of the celebratory, colorful popcorn box was a must! Chinese Chili Popcorn Serious popcorn box envy right now. And Heather says the Chinese Chili Popcorn inside is awesome! Chinese Chili Popcorn Yeah, we want some. Actually, we want all of the things from Tokyo Disney and DisneySea!  Have you visited an international Disney Park? Tell us about it in the comments below! Related posts: What’s New at Disney World’s Animal Kingdom: April 3, 2018 The Best Disney Donuts EVER. What’s New in Disney’s Hollywood Studios: May 2, 2018 View the full article

With Walt Disney World reservations now open for the Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs Resort — opening July 9, 2019 — we’ve been sharing construction updates. Today, we want to share complimentary construction pins that were distributed to guests of the resort. Coronado Springs Resort Tower Construction Featuring 545 guest rooms (including 50 suites) and a rooftop restaurant, the Gran Destino Tower will also serve as the main entrance to the resort. CSR Construction And we’re excited to see that guests are receiving free Construction Pins as a surprise in-room gift! (Thanks to our twitter follower D. Marsicano for sharing the pin pics with us!) In-room gift at Coronado Springs Resort We’re not certain if all registered guests are receiving this freebie or how long this little gift will last. Let us know about your recent experience at Coronado Springs Resort. CSR Construction Pins Showcasing Donald Duck and crew, these pins are great keepsakes! CSR Pin Thank You Message Want to keep up with all the Disney news? Follow us on Instagram! Have you stayed at Disney’s Coronado Springs recently or made reservations for an upcoming stay? Let us know! Related posts: What’s New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Coronado Springs Resort: May 26, 2018 Concept Art for On-the-Lake Dining Coming to Coronado Springs Resort Check Out El Mercado de Coronado (Formerly Pepper Market) at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort View the full article

Walt Disney World has cranked up an After Hours special event at Animal Kingdom theme park. The idea is to sell a limited amount of tickets to create an exclusive feel after regular park hours. My standard for special events is straightforward: I want to be made to feel special. And I include a... View the full article

CELEBRATION, Fla. (Dec. 5, 2018) – Disney Cruise Line and Adventures by Disney were both recognized as the “Best for Families” in the 11th annual Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards announced earlier today. These awards recognize the best cruise lines of the year, as selected by Cruise Critic’s global panel of experts – highlighting the best ocean, river and luxury cruise lines across dozens of categories. “These awards speak volumes about our incredible cast and crew and their attention to detail,” said Jeff Vahle, president of Disney Signature Experiences. “Whether families are sailing the Caribbean aboard one of our award-winning ships or enjoying a European river cruise with Adventures by Disney, our teams deliver only the most exceptional experiences. Once again, we are honored to be recognized by the editors of Cruise Critic.” The Editors’ Picks Awards combine Cruise Critic editors’ cruise expertise – based on first-hand experiences and industry knowledge – to help travelers select the best cruise vacation from an increasing number of cruise options. Cruise Critic boasts the world’s largest online cruise community, with more than 350,000 cruise reviews, covering approximately 700 cruise ships and nearly 500 worldwide ports. For the full details of this year’s winners, visit 2018 Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards. Since its launch in 1998, Disney Cruise Line has established itself as the leader in the family cruise industry, sailing from ports around the world on exhilarating itineraries to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Europe, Alaska, Hawaii and the Mexican Riviera, among others. Disney Cruise Line continues to grow and expand its horizons, with new ships scheduled for delivery in 2021, 2022 and 2023. Disney Cruise Line has received more than 300 distinguished awards from the travel industry praising all aspects of the operation from dining to entertainment, and from youth activities to spa facilities. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can contact their travel agent, visit disneycruise.com or call Disney Cruise Line at 888-DCL-2500. Travel agents can call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or visit disneytravelagents.com. Adventures by Disney provides immersive, hassle-free group guided vacation experiences to destinations on six continents. Families traveling with Adventures by Disney receive exceptional service while taking part in extraordinary experiences at locations including: the South African plains, the great cities of Europe, Costa Rica’s rich rainforest, the ruins of Pompeii and Machu Picchu, Australia’s Outback, the Great Wall of China and some of America’s most iconic destinations. Offering Disney-trained Adventure Guides on each trip, engaging activities, VIP experiences and personal touches throughout, Adventures by Disney vacations are crafted to excite and delight everyone. Visit AdventuresByDisney.com to learn more. ### View the full article

It’s almost time to “Have an INCREDIBLE New Year!” So you might want to know about the Incredible New Year’s Eve celebration now available for booking at Disneyland’s PCH Grill. The Incredibles The event features an all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet at PCH Grill followed by a a celebration with some favorite Pixar pals from The Incredibles inside the Pacific Ballroom at Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel. ©Disney The buffet will include starters such as pozole soup, New England clam chowder, imported and domestic cheeses and meats, along with homemade salads and fruit. Main dishes will feature a carving station serving herb-marinated prime rib, herb-roasted turkey breast served with cranberry relish and sage-infused turkey gravy, house-made fried chicken, salmon coulibiac, stout beer-braised short ribs, braised short ribs, and vegetarian options like saffron rice pilaf, chef’s pan-seared wild mushroom blend, and more hot dishes. And kids — who are more than welcome at this Incredible event! — will be able to choose from items like petite grilled beef tips, oven-baked mac and cheese, and create-your-own pizzas. Desserts will include a Yule log, cranberry mousse pie, tiramisu cheesecake, mud pie and a selection of traditional desserts. Once you’ve dined, its time to enter the Pacific Ballroom to party with dancing, enjoying a libation (for of-age guests), and “Snap selfies and rub elbows with some incredible Pixar Characters.” And guess what? You can ring in the New Year twice! A celebratory toast and balloon drop will take place at both 9:00 PM and midnight! Cheers to the New Year! The event costs $100.00 per adult and $35.00 per child (ages 3 to 9); tax and gratuity not included. Dinner will be served from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and the Pacific Ballroom New Year’s Eve Character Celebration event begins at 6:00 PM and ends at 12:30 AM. Interested guests may find more information and book online here. Guests may also book by calling (714) 781-DINE or (714) 781-3463 between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM Pacific Time daily. Here’s hoping you have an Incredible New Year! Visit our Disneyland Page for more Disneyland food fun! Will you be ringing in the new year at Disneyland Resort? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: News: Special Menus for New Year’s Eve in Disneyland Reservations for TWO New Disneyland Resort Character Meals Now Open Guest Review: Beach Side Bonfire Buffet at PCH Grill in Disneyland’s Paradise Pier Resort View the full article

I recently shared the photo opportunities available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom Park, but the festive photo fun doesn’t stop there! Disney PhotoPass Service can help you celebrate the spirit of the season all around Walt Disney World Resort. Below is just a sampling of the many seasonal Magic Shots available around the Resort this holiday season with details about where you can unwrap them. Gallery Enjoy These Jolly Magic Shots at Walt Disney World Resort view all To take home all of the Disney PhotoPass photos from your vacation, purchase Memory Maker! With this Disney PhotoPass product, you’ll receive easy-to-share digital memories not only of Magic Shots, but also of photos from participating dining and attraction locations, attraction videos, and family photos captured throughout the parks by Disney PhotoPass photographers. Even the photos taken at the Disney PhotoPass Studio at Disney Springs are included with Memory Maker!* Purchase online today. Curious about all of the other holiday photo ops available around Walt Disney World Resort? Follow Disney PhotoPass Service on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter in merry measure: We’ll be sharing all of our Yuletide treasure! Disney PhotoPass Service at Walt Disney World Resort is subject to the PhotoPass terms and expiration policy available here. Online registration required. Downloads are restricted to personal use by Disney account holder only and may not be used for a commercial purpose. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate theme park admission required for certain photo locations. *Memory Maker is subject to the applicable terms and policies available here. Includes photos taken during the applicable Memory Maker Window as defined in such terms (generally, photos taken (i) within one day for the One Day product or (ii) within 30 days from the date of first activation for standard Memory Maker). A MagicBand is required to receive certain attraction photos and other digital content. Disney PhotoPass Photos in your account will expire pursuant to the expiration policy available here. View the full article

Returning this year to Epcot International Festival of the Holidays is the holiday kitchen of the Feast of the Three Kings! Inspired by food and drinks of the Caribbean and Latin America, the kitchen pays homage to the Día de los Reyes Magos, a holiday celebrated in the Caribbean, Latin America and Spain, not only with food but also with history, as you get to learn about the celebration itself. The Feast of the Three Kings features drinks like Coquito (with and without rum) and new dishes like a Pastelón (sofrito-marinated beef with sweet plantains and olives) and an Arepa topped with melted queso fresco and another Arepa topped with shrimp, crushed avocado ají and tomato sauce, and more. Below you will find the recipe for the Pastelón so you can make it en casa! Also, I wanted to share some very exciting news with you! Starting next week, we are expanding our series to include Disneyland Resort! Stay tuned for more! Pastelón (Latin Meat Pie) Serves 4 Green Sofrito 10 large cloves garlic 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, large stems removed 1/4 cup chopped culantro, large stems removed 2 tablespoons chopped green onion 1/4 cup chopped cubanelle pepper 1/2 cup chopped white onion 1 cup chopped green pepper 1 cup chopped red pepper 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 cup water Sofrito ground beef 1 tablespoon canola oil 3 tablespoons diced white onion 1 pound ground beef 3/4 cup green sofrito batch (recipe above) 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 cup drained diced tomatoes 2 tablespoons tomato paste 1/4 teaspoon Tabasco sauce 3 tablespoons sliced Spanish green olives Sweet plantain mash 1 pound frozen sweet plantains, thawed (or 2 fresh plantains, peeled and sliced lengthwise) 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt 1 cup chicken stock Meat pie topping 1 cup mozzarella cheese Directions: For Green Sofrito: 1. Combine all ingredients in blender and purée until smooth. Set aside. For sofrito ground beef: 1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat, add onions and sauté until translucent. 2. Add ground beef, stirring to break up beef. Add 3/4 cup green sofrito, salt, pepper, and cumin; continue to stir until beef is fully cooked. 3. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and Tabasco sauce. Lower heat to medium-low and cook for an additional 5 to 8 minutes. 4. Stir in green olives. Consistency should be semi wet but not swimming in liquid. Set aside. For sweet plantain mash: 1. Preheat oven 325˚. 2. Place sweet plantains in a single layer on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the plantains are slightly caramelized but not too dark. 3. Mash plantains and salt in medium-size mixing bowl. Slowly add chicken stock, mashing to a creamy mash potato-style consistency, some lumps are okay. (Note: Depending on the plantains, you may not need all of the stock). For Pastelón (Latin Meat Pie): 1. Preheat oven to 350˚. 2. Spray 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray. 3. Place sofrito ground beef in the baking dish, cover beef with sweet plantain mash, top with mozzarella cheese. 4. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until meat pie is bubbly and cheese is golden brown. Cook’s Notes: Sofrito is a base for many Latin dishes. This batch makes 2 cups so you will have plenty left over to use for other dishes. Refrigerate up to 1 week or freeze up to 2 months. Culantro may be hard to find so you may double the amount of cilantro for a similar flavor. View the full article

#DisneyParksLIVE: Candlelight Processional | Walt Disney World View the full article

We are so excited to share that The Art of Mary Poppins Returns exhibit is now open at Disneyland park. The limited-time gallery features original art, costumes, props and video clips from the most anticipated film this holiday season: Disney’s “Mary Poppins Returns,” coming to theaters December 19. Recently, star Lin-Manuel Miranda stopped by Disneyland to share a message with Disney fans – check it out below! The Art of Mary Poppins Returns is located inside the lobby of the Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln theater at Disneyland park. Check out the photos below for a glimpse at the magic. It’s the practically perfect way to get excited about one of the most nostalgic sequels of all time! In the film, an all-new original musical and sequel, Mary Poppins is back to help the next generation of the Banks family find the joy and wonder missing in their lives following a personal loss. Emily Blunt stars as the practically-perfect nanny with unique magical skills who can turn any ordinary task into an unforgettable, fantastic adventure and Lin-Manuel Miranda plays her friend Jack, an optimistic street lamplighter who helps bring light—and life—to the streets of London. From the streets of London to Main Street, U.S.A. and beyond, join the conversation online with #MaryPoppinsReturns before and after the movie. View the full article