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Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar in Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs is an Indiana Jones-inspired bar where creatively-applied movie references are part of everything they do. From our first visit, we loved the cool space and the funky menu. Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar And Jock’s not just in it for the clever names. Come the holiday season, they’re also in it for the seasonal drinks! During Halloween we loved the spooky drinks and the Poison Apple Glow Cubes that came with them. And for the Christmas season, Jock Lindsey’s offering two holiday libations. Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar Holiday Drink Menu Jock Frost and Jock’s Holiday Nog both pay homage to the winter season, but they couldn’t be more different, really. Jock Frost is icy blue with a wheel of lemon. Jock’s Holiday Nog is creamy white with floating peppermint candies. Jock Frost and Jock’s Holiday Nog Some of Jock’s drinks come in elaborate souvenir cups, but these are served more simply than that. Holiday drinks! Jock’s Holiday Nog celebrates the season with a combination of Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Frangelico Liqueur, Rumchata Caribbean Rum, and Vanilla. The creamy drink isn’t overly sweet, but the vanilla makes it go down easily. And while you might not be hit with the alcohol right off, it’ll definitely hit you after. Jock’s Holiday Nog Jock Frost is a wintery drink in name and appearance only (minus that lemon garnish); otherwise it’s wondefully fruity. Jock Frost is a combination of Malibu Rum, Rumchata, Blue Curacao liqueur and Pineapple Juice, making this more at home on the beach than the slopes. But that’s okay with us! Jock Frost I enjoyed two appetizers along with my drinks: Incan Tuna Tacos and Nang Tao Spicy Popcorn Chicken. Appetizers The Nang Tao Spicy Popcorn Chicken lived up to its moniker (plus how ’bout that popcorn holding up the skewers? It’s also tossed with the spices!). The chicken nuggets were tangy and slightly spicy due to the spicy Togarashi Seasoning and Korean Pepper Sauce. Nang Tao Popcorn Chicken These are essentially spicy chicken nuggets — definitely bigger than typical popcorn chicken. And if you’re looking for a tasty counterpart to the sweet and creamy drinks, these are a great fit! Nang Tao Popcorn Chicken For something a little lighter, take a look at Incan Tuna Tacos! This trio of tacos features Seared Ahi Tuna with Ancient Spices, Lettuce, Guacamole, Sour Cream, Pico de Gallo, Cilantro, Jalapeno Pepper, and Toasted Lime in a Flour Tortilla. These were flavorful owing to the ‘ancient spices’, and the toasted lime in a squeezer means you can add lots of acid to the layers of flavor already in the tacos. Incan Tuna Tacos Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar is such a fun and clever spot to hang out in Disney Springs. Whether you’re fueling your shopping or eating your way through the Springs, a stop at Jock Lindsey’s is worth it. Don’t forget to sit in the diving bell!  What’s your favorite place to relax at Disney Springs? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: Review: Poison Apple Glow Cube Drinks at Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs! 25 Can’t-Miss Experiences to Celebrate the Holidays at Walt Disney World This Year! Disney World Splitsville Cast Member Special Offers View the full article

What’s new at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World this week? We’re glad you asked! From updated menus to holiday sale items and Guest Experience kiosks to new merchandise, Magic Kingdom has it all! Let’s take a walk through the park, shall we? What’s New on Main Street, USA The Plaza Restaurant has updated their menus and added a new-ish dinner menu! The Plaza Restaurant Dinner Menu The kids’ menus now feature art from Mary Poppins Returns, too. How cute is that? Mary Poppins Returns Art on Kids Menu Click here to read the full story about The Plaza’s updated menus. Guess what? A new Magic Kingdom tumbler has arrived at the Main Street Bakery! Magic Kingdom Starbucks Tumbler Read all about it right here. The 12 Days of Christmas Dogs is in full swing at Casey’s Corner! The Aztec Hot Diggity Dog was the hot dog of the day during our visit. Did you miss out on any of Casey’s Corner’s specialty hot dogs this year? Check out our 12 Days of Christmas Dogs post see which day you can get your hands on the hot dog you want! Casey’s Corner 12 Days of Christmas Dogs – Aztec Dog Disney’s Guest Experience Team is here to help you make the most of your visit! They have kiosks set up on Main Street, USA and in Tomorrowland and will have representatives present throughout the park. Tomorrowland Guest Experience Team Kiosk Click here to read the full story. Remember the fun Nightmare Before Christmas 25th Anniversary Collection from Harveys? Well, they’re back with a Sorcerer’s Apprentice collection! Find it at Uptown Jewelers. Read all about the Harveys Sorcerer’s Apprentice collection here. What’s New in Frontierland Remember the Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs holiday mugs we saw at Animal Kingdom last week? The same mugs are now available at Westward Ho Refreshments! Snow White Mug at Westward Ho What’s New in Liberty Square According to the Magic Kingdom‘s times guide, the Riverboat is scheduled to be open to guests on Saturday, 12/22! Check out the full story here! What’s New in Tomorrowland Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe has some new seasonal offerings! Loaded Galaxy Fries, which were previously only available via Mobile Order, are now available to pair with any entree. Loaded Galaxy Fries at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe Cosmic Ray’s is also featuring a Double-Bacon Cheeseburger! Double-Bacon Cheeseburger at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe Meanwhile, under the watchful eyes of Roz (we assume), the Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor got a brand new sign! New Sign at Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor What’s New with Disney Merchandise A few Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party-exclusive items are on sale! And nope, you don’t have to have a party ticket to be able to purchase them. Find mugs, ornaments, tees, and more. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Items on Sale Check out all of the holiday sale goodies here. We still have a few more weeks of 2018 left, but the 2019 merch has arrived! 2019 Mikey and Minnie See photos of all of the 2019 merch right here. We also spotted some Dumbo and it’s a small world layette sets and they are SO CUTE. Dumbo Layette These would make such a sweet gift for the little ones in your life! it’s a small world Layette Ready to get crafty when it comes to Disney attractions? Diorama sets are now available! We saw diorama designs for the Haunted Mansion: Haunted Mansion Diorama it’s a small world: it’s a small world diorama Splash Mountain: Splash Mountain Diorama and the Mad Tea Party! Mad Tea Party Diorama The premiere of Mary Poppins Returns is happening this week, and Walt Disney World has plenty accessories for Mary Poppins fans! This Practically Perfect ball cap is a new arrival. Mary Poppins Practically Perfect Cap Need to take a little Disney magic back to the office? This pen set features quotes from beloved Magic Kingdom attractions. Walt Disney World Quote Pens Or maybe this set of Magic Kingdom attractions-as-businesses pens is more your style! Walt Disney World Attractions Pens That’s everything new we spotted in Magic Kingdom this week! Stay tuned for more updates from Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Have you seen something new or fun on your Disney adventures? Be sure to tag us @DisneyFoodBlog on instagram! Related posts: What’s New in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom?: April 10, 2018 Review: ALL! THE! CHEESE! at Casey’s Corner in the Magic Kingdom News and Review: New Trail Mix Available Disney World’s Magic Kingdom View the full article

In the ever-changing landscape of Disney Springs, there is another new experience on the way in the summer of 2019. NBA Experience — developed by Walt Disney Imagineering in partnership with the NBA — will present guests with “hands-on activities that highlight the action and excitement of professional basketball.” NBA Experience Concept Art ©Disney Along with the new concept art above, Disney provided a list of experiences which will be available in the immersive environment. NBA Experience Artwork These include: A photo moment that re-creates the atmosphere for a basketball player at the NBA Draft The chance to track and improve jumps shots and passing in a replicated NBA Combine challenge (complete with a scouting report of their stats!) “Step onto the court and hear the roar of the crowd” Execute “the perfect slam dunk…” with the moment captured by cameras! Work with an interactive trainer to test ball-handling skills Access a team locker room Test knowledge of both the NBA and WNBA past and present in a trivia game And more! Guests will also be able to shop at a retail store which will feature NBA-themed merchandise designed by Disney. We’ll keep you posted as the summer 2019 opening of the NBA Experience approaches! The NBA Experience is just one of MANY new experiences coming to the Disney Parks in the not-so-far-away future! Find out more about all the BIG CHANGES in store for Disney World in our DFB YouTube video! Are you excited about the NBA Experience coming to Disney Springs? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: What’s New in Disney Springs! August 10, 2018 What’s NEW At Disney Springs? A WHOLE LOT! Check it out…. 2019 Disney Restaurant ULTIMATE GUIDE: What You Need To Know About EVERY Restaurant Opening In Disney World and Disneyland in 2019! View the full article

It’s not easy being blue — or filling Robin Williams’ genie shoes — and the internet isn’t going to let Will Smith forget it. Entertainment Weekly published first-look photos from Disney’s upcoming live-action adaptation of the animated classic “Aladdin” on Wednesday, featuring Smith in character... View the full article

Are any of you spending the weekend putting up the last few holiday decorations at your home? That’s the activity that served as inspiration for today’s Disney Doodle, by artist Ashley Taylor, who imagines what Merlin would do if he had the chance to visit a Disney theme park. According to Ashley, Merlin just may use his magical skills to bring holiday cheer to Disney’s Animal Kingdom. “Merlin is always looking for more efficient ways to do chores.” she said. “It’s easy to imagine Merlin using his magic to put up the holiday decorations at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.” View the full article

Harveys, the California-based company known for their seat belt bags, is at it again! Earlier this fall, they released a fun, Nightmare Before Christmas 25th Anniversary Collection. And, in the Magic Kingdom this week, we spotted THIS: Harveys Sorcerer Mickey Tote That’s right – it’s a Sorcerer’s Apprentice collection! What does the collection include and where can you find it? We’ve got the answers! This tote, the largest bag in the collection, features a star background with Sorcerer Mickey on one side and the enchanted broom on the other. Harveys Sorcerer Mickey Tote The collection also includes a backpack, a messenger bag, and a wallet. Harveys Sorcerer Mickey Display in Uptown Jewelers Check out this pattern on the messenger bag – isn’t it cute!? Harveys Sorcerer’s Apprentice pattern close-up You can find the Harveys Sorcerer’s Apprentice collection at Uptown Jewelers on Main Street USA at Magic Kingdom. If you’re at Disney Springs, Ever After Jewelry Co might also be a good place to check! Harveys Sorcerer’s Apprentice Pouch It’s so hard to choose a favorite! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! What do you think – are you planning to pick up anything from the Sorcerer’s Apprentice collection? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: Disney Parks Halloween Merchandise for 2018 is HERE! And It’s SUPER FUN. Nightmare Before Christmas 25th Anniversary Harveys Totes Spotted In The Parks! These Disney Journals Are Your New Must-Have Merch. Believe Me. View the full article

Back in September, we reported that IllumiNations, the beloved laser, water, and pyrotechnics show nightly seen on Epcot’s World Showcase Lagoon, will be replaced in the second half of 2019. Illuminations, Reflections of Earth And now there’s construction happening over at World Showcase Lagoon! Possible construction of Illuminations replacement We spotted this construction equipment in World Showcase Lagoon today. It appears to be a construction barge, some piping, and a crane. We have NO idea if this is for the new Fireworks Show coming to Epcot next year, or if it’s just run-of-the-mill maintenance. Cast members that we asked weren’t sure. Possible construction of Illuminations replacement The forthcoming show is described as bringing “new thrills” to the crowds who gather to watch Epcot’s nighttime spectacular, but we can only watch as it unfolds, as details about the show have not yet been released. Possible construction of Illuminations replacement But you can bet we’ll be watching — and we’ll let you know what we see! Want to stay on top of all the construction news — and everything else that’s newsworthy in the Disney world? Sign up for our newsletter today! What do you hope to see in Epcot’s new nighttime show? Let us hear your thoughts in the comments! Related posts: Join Us on the Cookie Stroll at Epcot’s International Festival of the Holidays! Epcot’s IllumiNations Fireworks Being Replaced By A New Disney World Nighttime Show in 2019 Guest Review: The NEW Tea Experience at Epcot’s Rose & Crown Dining Room! View the full article

This time next month, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex will be buzzing with professional football action as Walt Disney World Resort hosts the NFL Pro Bowl Experience for the third straight year. And now, there’s even more to be excited about because the NFL has officially announced the 2019 AFC and NFC Pro Bowl teams! The Los Angeles Chargers placed an NFL-best seven players on the AFC Pro Bowl roster, while the Chicago Bears, Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints led the NFC with five players each. Among the Pro Bowl players announced were New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, New England Patriots QB Tom Brady, Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones, Pittsburgh Steelers WR Antonio Brown, Green Bay Packers QB Aaron Rodgers, Kansas City Chiefs phenom QB Patrick Mahomes and New York Giants rookie sensation Saquon Barkley. Pro Bowl Week begins Monday, Jan. 21 and end Sunday, Jan. 27, with the majority of the festivities taking place at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. NFL fans can check out AFC and NFC team practices, participate in activities such as the always popular 40-yard dash and take in the revamped NFL Skills Showdown, featuring several new events for the NFL’s top skill players, including the 40-yard Splash, a Gridiron Gauntlet obstacle course and a Precision Passing contest. Other NFL Pro Bowl Experience activities include the Long Snap Accuracy Challenge, where fans can test their aim by snapping footballs through a variety of obstacles and the NFL Family Football Zone, an interactive area for families to participate in a variety of football and tailgate-themed activities. NFL Pro Bowl week at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex is open to the public, with no charge to guests. So, if you’re visiting Walt Disney World Resort January 21-27, the NFL’s Pro Bowl Week is an experience you don’t want to miss! Tickets for the NFL Pro Bowl game are still available at nfl.com/probowl where you will also find the star-studded rosters of the AFC and NFC teams. For more information on NFL Pro Bowl Week, visit espnwwos.com or nfl.com/probowl. View the full article

Hundreds of Disney Parks Blog readers recently gathered at AMC Disney Springs 24 at Walt Disney World Resort for an early screening of “Mary Poppins Returns.” 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. Check out the video above to hear our guests’ raving reactions to this new film. “Mary Poppins Returns” will hit theaters December 19. Grab tickets to see it now at Disney Springs. 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

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