Disney4me

A taste of the playful dishes expected at Disney’s Toy Story Land was shared on the Disney Parks Blog today. The new land will open in Disney’s Hollywood Studios on June 30. Characters from the “Toy Story” movies, such as Woody, Buzz and the Green Army Men will be featured throughout the area,... View the full article

Lucasfilm and Disney released a second trailer for "Solo: A Star Wars Story" with more back-and-forth between Chewbacca and Han and more plot revealed. But while the movie is about the origins of Solo, played by Alden Ehrenreich, it’s also got more looks at the Millennium Falcon, with its shiny... View the full article

In the toy-filled backyard that is Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests “shrink” to the size of a toy and explore the world of Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and friends. In the middle of all the fun, Andy has taken his vintage Woody-themed lunch box and propped it open with a thermos, turning it into a walk-up window where his toys can grab a bite to eat. From a nearby tower, green army men stand at the ready, keeping watch for Andy’s return. Opening June 30, Woody’s Lunch Box will dish up all sorts of sandwiches and sides that blend classic flavor combinations with a modern twist, plus nostalgic soda floats and specialty beverages. We caught up with the team at Flavor Lab – the concept development kitchen – to ask how much fun (and challenging) it was to take sentimental food favorites and give them a modern make-over…in flavor and presentation. “Everyone has a special food memory, so it can be tricky putting a modern spin on the favorites,” explained Lenny DeGeorge, Concept Development Culinary Director for Walt Disney World, about the year-long menu development process. “We honored these classic dishes by using the best ingredients to elevate the flavors. How we constructed the sandwiches was important, such as layering the ingredients in a specific order, to maximize textures and flavors. Why have a cold sandwich when you can have a toasted hot, gooey cheese-filled one?” Here is a peek into Woody’s Lunch Box. Gee, I wish my mom would have packed me a lunch like this! S’more French Toast Breakfast Sandwich – Oozy goodness in a chocolate ganache- and marshmallow-stuffed French toast topped with graham cracker crumbles. Inspired by the classic American campfire treat. Smoked Turkey, Eggs, Swiss, Peppers, and Onions on Sourdough – The perfect hand-held stack of breakfast goodness. Breakfast Bowl – The green army men line up for this hearty bowl of potato barrels, brisket-country gravy, and scrambled eggs. BBQ Brisket Melt – With a nod to cowboy Woody, this Texas-style smoked brisket features cheddar, Monterey Jack, pickles, and BBQ sauce on garlic butter-grilled sourdough. Monte Cristo with Raspberry Jam – Woody’s version of this classic sandwich has layers of ham, turkey, Swiss, and raspberry jam…and is grilled to a golden brown. Totchos – Potato barrels, corn chips, chili, and cheese – what’s not to love?? Sides include tomato basil soup, vegetable macaroni salad, and potato barrels. Mini Babybel snack cheese, the official snack cheese of Walt Disney World Resort, is also an option to eat with your meal or as an on-the-go snack. Raspberry Lunch Box Tart garnished with Icing and Dried Fruit and Chocolate-Hazelnut Lunch Box Tart garnished with Icing and Caramelized Bacon – Even toys need a sweet treat! Inspired by breakfast toaster pastries, this modern interpretation, with its uniquely delicate crust, is the perfect hand-held pastry. The littlest toys can enjoy a grilled cheese sandwich or turkey sandwich, both served with potato barrels and mandarin oranges. For toys looking for more lighter options, they can grab one of these tasty bites at Woody’s Lunch Box or check out the many other healthful offerings available at Disney’s Hollywood Studios including fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, and grilled meats and fish. Banana Split Yogurt Parfait – Layers of banana-vanilla Greek yogurt (with a hint of honey), fresh bananas, strawberries, and pineapple topped with granola and chocolate chips. A delicious and healthful way to start the day! Smoked Turkey, Tomato, and Lettuce on Multigrain Bread – This quintessential lunch box sandwich is a light and fresh option. And to give it a kick of flavor, we add a creamy Dijonnaise. Soda Floats – All toys would agree that a refreshing soda float is the perfect nostalgic beverage! The adorable Alien Sipper may be purchased and filled with any fountain drink or the signature Mystic Portal Punch – Powerade Mountain Berry Blast with flavors of lemon-lime and tangerine. The big kids can enjoy the backyard with Grown-Up’s Lemonade cocktail (cherry vodka, Odwalla Lemonade, and black cherry purée), beer, or hard cider. Check out the full menu of lunch box favorites here. See you June 30! View the full article

Our Disney Doodles series explores what a Disney character may do or see first if they had the chance to visit a Disney theme park. Today, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what Cinderella would do if she had the chance to visit Magic Kingdom Park. According to her, Cinderella would be drawn to explore her magical castle, which sits in the center of the park. It would be the perfect place for people watching! “Whenever I see Cinderella Castle, I imagine Cinderella peeking through her windows to watch all of the guests enter Magic Kingdom!” Ashley said. “I’m sure she can’t wait to meet everyone!” View the full article

Are you getting pumped for Pixar Fest?! If so, you’re not the only one getting ready to take on all the Pixar fun coming to Disneyland and Disney California Adventure from April 13th through September 3rd… because Toy Story’s little green aliens are getting in on the celebration, too! Check out this Little Green Alien Popcorn Bucket coming to Pixar Fest… exclusively for Disneyland Annual Passholders! Little Green Alien Popcorn Bucket ©Disney Here’s what’s poppin’! From April 24th through May 24th, Disneyland Annual Passholders will be able to purchase this premium bucket for $20, then refill the bucket for $1 a pop through June 21, 2018. Wanna know where to find it? Here are the Popcorn Carts which will offer the bucket (or refills, where noted) in Disneyland Park: Frontierland (near Mark Twain Riverboat) Main Street, U.S.A. (near City Hall) Main Street, U.S.A. (Central Plaza) New Orleans Square (near Haunted Mansion) Fantasyland (small world promenade) Fantasyland (Fantasyland Theater – refills only) Mickey’s Toontown (near Gadget’s Go Coaster – refills only) Tomorrowland (near Star Trader – refills only after May 3) And here are the participating Popcorn Carts for Disney California Adventure: Buena Vista Street (near Carthay Circle) Grizzly Peak (near Soarin’ Around the World) Hollywood Land (Hyperion Theater – refills only) Be prepared to show your Annual Passport (and have a Photo I.D. ready, just in case). And remember, these are available while supplies last, so you’ll probably want to act fast — especially if you remember the lines for the Oogie Boogie Bucket from last Halloween! Oogie Popcorn Bucket form Halloween 2017 And remember: the SULLEY Premium Popcorn Bucket is on the way, too! Be on the lookout for him when Pixar Fest kicks off on April 13th! Find more Disneyland Food Fun here! Will you be getting in line for a Little Green Men Popcorn Bucket? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Breaking! NEW Dining Spots Coming to Disneyland’s Pixar Pier; PLUS Pixar Fest Food Sneak Peek… Dining in Disneyland: Zero Premium Popcorn Bucket and Other Halloween Time Popcorn Souvenirs The Hottest New Disneyland Popcorn Bucket Is Selling Out FAST! View the full article

Why was this not a thing before?? After the Matterhorn Macaroon Donut I figured the Dole Whip wouldn’t be far behind, but it’s taken a while. Still, happy to say…it’s finally here at the Disneyland Donut Cart! Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle This popped up at the Donut Cart, which can be found at the end of Main Street next to Sleeping Beauty Castle, yesterday, and it’s getting super popular! The filled donut has pineapple flavored icing on top, along with a swirl of marshmallow-y meringue. Disneyland’s Dole Whip Donut Inside is pineapple flavored filling with real bits of pineapple. Inside the Dole Whip Donut So this donut is clearly a must-do if you’re a Dole Whip fan. But remember, the donut cart varieties change out regularly — sometimes daily — so you may not find this version there when you are! Disneyland Dole Whip Donut Thanks to @NinaTinkandTaylor for the use of these photos! Love Dole Whip? Don’t Forget to Clicke Here to Check Out the Newest Dole Whip Flavor Coming to Disney California Adventure this Summer! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Dole Whip and Dole Whip Floats Now Available at Disneyland Hotel Review: Haunted Mansion Dole Whip Special Occasion Cake at Napa Rose in Disneyland New DFB Video: Tajin Dole Whip Hack in Disneyland View the full article

Happy weekend! Here’s all the Disney food news this week! Baked Mac and Cheese with Shrimp The 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival is ON! We have FULL MENUS for the Epcot Flower and Garden FESTIVAL plus Photos of EVERY FOOD ITEM and most beverages! And, the 2018 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival is happening through April 12 — which is next Friday! Click here for the FULL MENUS and ALL the FOOD PHOTOS for the DCA Food and Wine Festival! And it’s time to get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2018 e-book! Save 25% now with code wdw2018! We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News Two new and nostalgic treats at the Magic Kingdom! Sweet Spells is closing at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. We have a menu update for Toy Story Land! Mobile Order is coming to Disneyland Resort! Check out what’s new at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort! Get the details on what alcoholic drinks are included on the Disney Dining Plan. We found the BEST cookie at Disney World – no park ticket required. What are the best hotels for families of 5 or more at Disney World? Check out the newest latte art at Joffrey’s! Disney Cruise Line announces new culinary port adventures in partnership with The Chew! Get the scoop on what’s new at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. We found some adorable new Alice in Wonderland tea party merchandise in Epcot’s United Kingdom pavilion. Burger of the Month is coming to The Edison in Disney Springs. New DFB YouTube videos: 11 Things I Miss When I’m Not at Disney World, Hidden Secrets of Disney World Explained, Part 1, and Epcot Food and Wine Festival 101. ! Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including menu updates, restaurant closures, special events, and more! We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go. New DFB Video: Hidden Secrets of Disney World Explained, Part 1 Have you subscribed to the DFB YouTube Channel? We’ve got great content going up twice a week showcasing our adventures in Disney World and Disneyland! This week, we’re sharing our latest video – Hidden Secrets of Disney World Explained, Part 1! Check it out — and don’t forget to subscribe here. Deal of the Week: 25% off the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2018 The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2018 is here and we’re celebrating the grand launch with 25% off the cover price with promo code WDW2018. What’s in the DFB Guide? The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2018 Edition is full of need-to-know details, tools, and features to make your trip go smoothly, including: A 5-Step Strategy for Disney Dining Planning, covering everything you need to know from budgeting and booking to kids’ meals, dining discounts, and fireworks. An in-depth analysis of the Disney Dining Plan and whether it’s right for YOU. A comprehensive and in-depth look at EVERY Disney World restaurant, kiosk, bar, and lounge, including our personal tips to ensure a positive and stress-free dining experience. Four free, downloadable worksheets for planning your trip. These worksheets are designed to help you execute all the steps of planning the perfect Disney dining experience. And they’re reusable for all of your future trips! Seven sample one-day dining itineraries for a head-start on planning. A comprehensive index of bars and lounges WITH reviews. An often under-appreciated option for both dining and entertainment, the e-Book devotes a whole index to the topic. The ability to be read on your mobile device or computer! It’s fully portable right in your pocket! With over 600 pages of full-color photos, tips on the best restaurants, an ENTIRE chapter on snacks — including the best snack credit values throughout the parks and resorts — and a full break-down of whether the Disney Dining Plan is worth it for your family, now’s the time to get started planning your next Disney World vacation! 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Sample Pages Here’s Just Some Of What We’ve Updated In the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book: Fully updated prices and restaurant info for 2018 visitors Updated details about available discounts and deals at Disney World restaurants DFB’s own 2018 recommendations for everything from table service to counter service to snacks and more Over 600 pages of updated Disney Dining advice, details, and information Disney Dining Plan Analysis – Is it right for your family? Can you really save money? NEW Disney food and restaurant photos Updated reviews of all Disney World restaurants, kiosks, bars, and lounges including all new eateries An updated chapter focused on one of the most popular Disney dining topics: Snacks in the theme parks and resorts A comprehensive section of What’s NEW in Disney Food, including new restaurants, new menus, restaurant closures, and more Updated information about the My Magic+ Planning System that Disney rolled out in 2013, and how it may affect your 2018 Disney plans Changes coming to Disney World in 2018 and 2019! As you can see, this is a labor of love and we put a ton of time and effort (and research) into ensuring that we are sharing with you the most relevant, up to date Disney Food Information that’s available. We do this so that you can plan your own Disney visit with confidence, and have the trip of a lifetime, every time. And right now you can save 25% off the cover price with promo code WDW2018! DFB Reader Finds If you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or around Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday. Earlier this year we told you about the new Poutine at Refreshment Port at Epcot – fries topped with Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup and Cheese Curds. Our pals at World of Motion had a chance to enjoy the dish recently and said AJ made them do it! ;-D HA! You need to order this now! Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Florida Kitchen is one of our favorite spots at Disney World. Our friend Amy Rhodes had a chance to dine there recently and declared the “deviled eggs were the STAR!” So much great food! Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix shared the must-have and all-new Disney Eats Kitchen Collection! WDW for Grownups shared some of their must-have Magic Kingdom snacks. Disney Parks Blog shared a recipe from Florida Fresh at the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. Disney Family shared a recipe for an adorable Stitch Cheesecake! Have a great week! We’ll see you back here tomorrow with another great Disney food review! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Food News This Week: April 1, 2018 Disney Food News This Week: March 25, 2018 Disney Food News This Week: March 18, 2018 View the full article

This week, Disney Parks Blog readers were among the first to learn about our newest My Disney Experience app feature: a digital key! Coming soon to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, a new feature in the My Disney Experience app will allow you to quickly unlock your hotel room using a digital key on your mobile device. This complimentary feature will become available later this month at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, including the Boulder Ridge Villas and Copper Creek Villas & Cabins, and is expected to expand to other Disney Resort hotels in the coming months. Check out our original New Digital Key Feature story to learn more about how it works. We also shared a quick look at how guests are uniting with Black Panther at Disney California Adventure park. Guests of all ages have been inspired by T’Challa, also known as Black Panther, the heir to the Wakandan throne. Meet Black Panther — accompanied by his Royal Guards, the Dora Milaje — for a limited time in the Hollywood Backlot area at Disney California Adventure park. And visit our original Black Panther at Disney California Adventure park story for more. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Foodie Favorites from Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival – If you haven’t been to the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival at the Disneyland Resort yet, you must come out and experience it! This year’s festival has been the tastiest yet – celebrating the best food, wine and craft beers that California has to offer. Disney Cruise Line Unveils Culinary Port Adventures Approved by ‘The Chew’ – We’re excited to share with you today the new fun we’ve cooked up for your Disney cruise. We’ve partnered with ABC’s “The Chew” to bring you unique, food-and-beverage-themed Port Adventures that celebrate the stories, cultures and flavors of the places you’ll visit. Celebrate The Release of ‘Solo: A Star Wars Story’ at Star Wars: Galactic Nights on May 27 – Are you as excited as I am to see “Solo: A Star Wars Story” when it hits theaters May 25? Here at Disney Parks, there’s no better way to celebrate the release of the film than to follow up a showing by attending the Star Wars: Galactic Nights special event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on May 27. Festival of Pirates and Princesses Begins at Disneyland Paris – Mischief and magic is afoot at Disneyland Paris! As part of the 25th Anniversary celebration, guests can now create their very own adventure story and participate in an exciting show unlike anything before at the resort. Mobile Ordering Service Coming Soon to Disneyland Resort – A new mobile ordering service will soon be available at the Disneyland Resort! Mobile ordering is just one more option for guests to further customize their Disney vacations, allowing them to conveniently place orders at select fast casual and quick-service restaurant locations using the Disneyland App from anywhere across the resort. Vote for Your Favorite Cast Member-Created Recycled Art Project at the Disneyland Resort – To celebrate Earth Month, Disneyland Resort cast members have created original works of art from recyclable items found in their work areas during the third annual Environmentality Art Challenge. The top ten finalists are featured here on the Disney Parks Blog, and in-person at the Disneyland Resort, for you to vote for your favorite! View the full article

Hey, there! We’re back with another DFB Video today… it’s time for Epcot Food and Wine Festival 101, my friends! The Epcot International Food and Wine Festival You may be surprised about all there is to know about the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival! It’s much more than the Food Booths scattered all around the park providing extra food and drink options for Epcot guests (though we love those, too!). If you’ve never been to the Food and Wine Festival (or even if you have!) you may not know about all the extra Epcot happenings from Special Events to Culinary and Beverage Seminars and Demonstrations, to the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, and much, MUCH more! So join us in our first in a series of videos all about our favorite event of the year: the Epcot Food and Wine Festival! 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 planning to attend the Epcot Food and Wine Festival this year? Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: New Video! The Best of the Epcot Food and Wine Festival Now on the DFB YouTube Channel! New Video: Our Top Tips for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival! New Video: The Epcot Food and Wine Festival Best of the Fest! View the full article

We’re always on the look out for new sweet treats in the Walt Disney World parks — and this time, we’ve found two tasty winners in the Magic Kingdom! The best part is, if you’re a long-time Disney fan or Disney WORLD fan, these might even pull at your heartstrings a little bit! First up, Pinocchio Village Haus is putting the sweet in sweet treat with Italian Cream Cake. Pinocchio Village Haus This cake is layers of cake and Italian cream with a white chocolate Jiminy Cricket on top! He’s seriously one of my favorites and I love that he’s getting his own dessert here! Italian Cream at Pinocchio Village Haus The Italian Cream Cake comes in a handy dessert cup, easy to carry around or to eat while in the queue for Seven Dwarfs Mine Train! Italian Cream Cake The cake itself is a white cake with nuts and a few chocolate chips dispersed throughout. Layers of the Italian Cream Cake Jiminy is white chocolate and adds whimsy to the simple-looking dessert. Jiminy Cricket! The Italian Cream is super sweet (and there’s lots of it!), so even with the simple cake, this treat is very sweet — like you might want to consider sharing it because it’s a little much for one person. There’s some nice texture on top with a little shaved coconut. Italian Cream Seriously, this is goooooood! We love the lightness of the cream (despite its almost shocking sweetness), and the cake is awesome. For those who don’t care for coconut, there’s just that little bit on top, so this might still work for you! And at $4.79 (or a DDP snack credit), it’s a decent price (particularly if you share!). Perfect bite of Italian Cream Cake If you prefer sweet treats of a chocolate persuasion, scoot over to Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe for a Sonny Eclipse-worthy dessert! Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe The Sonny Eclipse Dessert is a chocolate lovers dream! From top to bottom, it’s really well done! Sonny Eclipse Dessert Sonny is featured on a piece of dried fondant… and he’s not very good. This pretty much tastes like paper, so we say discard Sonny before digging in. There’s Sonny! But once you get past that little snafoo, the cake is cookies and cream cheesecake atop a chocolate cookie crust. The cake isn’t all that cheesecake-y, so don’t shy away if you aren’t into cheesecake. Sonny Eclipse Dessert The layer of chocolate on top (and those blue “galaxy sprinkles”) add a little extra sweetness to Sonny’s dessert. And that cross-section? We need this in our lives today. Sonny Eclips Dessert Interior Sonny will run you $5.99 (or a snack credit), and for those looking for a chocolate treat, it’s worth the price. (And it’s a good value on the DDP!) Ready for MORE Disney Snacks?! Don’t Miss Out on the ALL the Best Snacks Walt Disney World Has to Offer! Get four awesome e-Books FULL of Disney park dining advice, bundled for 30% off the already discounted price! Yep, we’ve scoured the parks to find any and all snack choices — from the mundane to the spectacular — and we tell you all about them (with full-color pictures!) in our snack guides! These are updated every year, so you know your guide will be perfect for your upcoming trip, and they’re bundled with our DFB Guide to WDW Dining! This money-saving bundle includes all of the following: The 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining The DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks The DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks All four are being sold together — for 30% off the already hugely discounted bundle price. Use code BUNDLE18 at check out to get the discount. It’s a $63 value for under $30!! With this Bundle of e-books you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips to plan the best Disney World vacation ever. And with our handy e-book format, you can download the Guides to all of your electronic devices and take them with you wherever you go! And with our 100% money-back guarantee, what do you have to lose? What’s your sweet treat attack at the Disney Parks? Do you save your cravings for meal time or grab something good to go? Tell us in the comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Fall-riffic Pumpkin Cupcake at the Magic Kingdom! Check Out These St. Patrick’s Day Treats in Disney Springs! Cookie Sundae is BACK…but, Different…at Storybook Treats in Disney World View the full article

As we shared yesterday, a Pandora Conservation Initiative (PCI) pilot recently demonstrated the Pandora Utility Suit that will soon be used to study the wildlife, collect plant samples, and survive Pandora’s terrain. This amazing Utility Suit was created in partnership between Lightstorm Entertainment, Disney Parks Live Entertainment, Michael Curry Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering. Check out the video above as Tony Giordano, Robert King and Laura Offerdahl from Disney Parks Live Entertainment take you behind the scenes as this amazing suit comes to life. You can encounter the Utility Suit pilot in Pandora – The World of Avatar starting April 22. Be sure to check the Times Guide or the My Disney Experience App the day of your visit for the latest information. View the full article

Last week, we shared the story of of Leota Toombs Thomas, as one of the many legendary women who have helped shape the Disneyland Resort. Today, we’re sharing the story of designer and artist Mary Blair. Read the story below, which originally ran in the Disneyland Resort Line, a magazine published exclusively for Disneyland Resort cast members. After bringing her talents to films like “Cinderella,” “Alice in Wonderland,” and “Peter Pan,” Walt Disney asked artist Mary Blair to develop the environment of “it’s a small world,” a new attraction heading to the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair — with less than a year to spare. Luckily, the playful project was perfect for Mary; her creative expression led to one of Disney’s most colorful and charming attractions. The universal appeal of “it’s a small world,” and the whimsical flair of Mary Blair can be seen in interpretations of the iconic attraction at Magic Kingdom Park in Florida, Disneyland Paris, Hong Kong Disneyland and Tokyo Disneyland. Then, Mary took on Tomorrowland with two larger-than-life murals. The ceramic tile artwork, much like “it’s a small world,” evoked an optimistic look towards the future, with children of the world coming together to dance and make music. Mary’s cheery designs continue to inspire Disney artists today, including Disney artist and historian Stacia Martin. “I’d say inspire and intimidate,” jokes Stacia, who got her start nearly 40 years ago in the original Disneyana shop and has gone on to write and illustrate books. “Mary Blair went to Walt Disney Imagineering and made such a big difference by extrapolating her film work experience. … She was the first one to take her own work from blank sheet of paper all the way up to model to finished environment.” And while Stacia never got to meet Mary, who passed away in 1978, Stacia takes pride in knowing how much joy Mary got from her work — and how much joy it has brought to the world. “I certainly hope that whatever I do will continue to bring me joy and will give whoever it is that’s on the viewing or listening end of what I do, some measure of happiness as well.” View the full article

Did you catch a glimpse of this mysterious video we shared moments ago across our Disney Parks social channels? Shot in the breathtaking Valley of Mo’ara – amid the moon’s floating mountains, waterfalls and native flora – it looks like something new has emerged on Pandora. Tune in to the Disney Parks Blog tomorrow, Saturday, April 7, for a behind-the-scenes look at what’s coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom in time for the park’s 20th anniversary on April 22, 2018. View the full article

Imagine waking up to this amazing scene! When I enjoyed the Adventures by Disney Arizona and Utah vacation last summer this was the view in Moab, Utah. Here I delighted in beautiful red rock buttes, watched from my window as people rafted down the Colorado River (and then joined in myself as part of the many active adventures included in this trip), and some in our group even awoke to the sound of horses neighing in the on-site stable. This was the perfect home base for the many outdoorsy excursions that are part of this trip, including hiking in the breathtaking Arches National Park. The whole experience is truly a wonderland for the eyes! It’s not too late to book an Adventures by Disney vacation this summer! Best of all, you can save $250 per person on select land and river cruise departures and $150 per person on select long weekend departures* if you book by Aug. 31! But hurry: For land packages, travel must be booked 30-45 days prior to applicable departure date, depending on itinerary. For river cruise packages, travel must be booked by 14 days prior to applicable departure date and not all stateroom categories are available for booking. *The per person per reservation discount is taken from the non-discounted prevailing rate as quoted on AdventuresByDisney.com on the date of booking (“Regular Rate”). Regular Rates vary by departure date and time of booking and are subject to change. Regular Rates are based on double occupancy. All Guest names required at time of booking. Courtesy holds will not be accepted without compliance with standard payment terms. The number of river cruise staterooms and spaces on land packages available for this offer is limited. Excludes river cruise suites and category E staterooms. The AdventuresByDisney.com website is not updated in real time; availability is subject to confirmation at the time of booking with Adventures by Disney. Discount not applicable to deposit. Valid on new bookings only. Offer cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts or promotions. Offer is not transferable or redeemable for cash in whole or in part. Void where prohibited. Offer is subject to change without notice. Bookings subject to restrictions and Adventures by Disney’s standard terms and conditions. View the full article

We shared 60 ways you can #GetMoreHappy at the Disneyland Resort. Today, we’re continuing the series with 20 more! 61. You can fly when you step aboard a magical pirate ship at Peter Pan’s Flight. (Please prepare your happy thoughts accordingly.) 62. Meet up at our head salesman’s place and savor a tropical drink at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar at the Disneyland Hotel. 63. Relax in one of the teacups in the hotel lobby. 64. Meet an original classic, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit, on Buena Vista Street. 65. Get more happy with some extra dopamine (or as we like to call it, “Dopey-mine”) when you pay a visit to Snow White Grotto. 66. Enjoy a zany breakfast or dinner at Goofy’s Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel. 67. Anyone can get a park map, but the map in Fantasy Tower at the Disneyland Hotel has a little bit of extra magic. 68. Actually, there’s another magical map. Watch as Mickey gets swept away to fantastical worlds at Mickey and the Magical Map. 69. Anyone know what time it is? Check the clock in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa lobby for Mouse Standard Time. 70. Do not touch the apple as you enter Snow White’s Scary Adventures. (Just kidding, go ahead and touch it.) 71. Make them tractors twist and twirl at Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree. 72. At the Hearthstone Lounge in the Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, enjoy a drink or snack as you cozy up to the fire. 73. Immerse yourself in the tales of the Old West at Storytellers Cafe. 74. Harmonize with the Dapper Dans on Main Street, U.S.A. 75. Harmonize with some grim grinning ghosts over at Haunted Mansion. 76. Jump into your own giant clam shell and dive under the sea with Ariel and her friends at The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure. 77. Take a break and take in the Great Hall Lobby of Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa. 78. Try the late-night menu at the Galactic Grill. (The selections are out of this world. See what we did there?) 79. Relive one of the greatest fairy tales ever told at the Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough. 80. Get a picture with Walt Disney at the “Storytellers” statue on Buena Vista Street. Check back soon for the last 20 ways to #GetMoreHappy at the Disneyland Resort. View the full article

As the only Main Street, U.S.A. vehicles that have been in operation since Disneyland park opened, the horse-drawn streetcars are an iconic attraction at the Disneyland Resort. One can almost hear the sound of horses and the clang of a streetcar bell when envisioning Main Street, U.S.A. Vehicles like these were popular in towns throughout America from the mid-1800s through the early 1900s, when motorized vehicles replaced them. Because the streetcars at Disneyland park, based on actual streetcars from the 1880s, use metal wheels and track, resistance is minimized, making even a fully loaded streetcar easy to pull for our four-legged cast members. Disneyland park guests are thrilled the horse-drawn streetcars have recently returned after new brickwork and tracks were installed on Main Street, U.S.A. In this “Every Role a Starring Role,” cast member Emily Kralick joins Bug, one of our many horses, to explain what it’s like being a horse-drawn streetcar conductor at the Disneyland Resort! View the full article

Wow. We’ve just heard that Sweet Spells — the final spot where you can get one of my very favorite snacks in Disney World, the Carrot Cake Cookie — will be closing permanently later this month to make way for a Pixar merchandise location. Quoi?!? Sweet Spells in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Sweet Spells is the main “confectionery” of Hollywood Studios, selling fresh baked goods as well as fresh candies, house-made caramel apples, and more. Sweet Spells Oreo “Whoopie Pie” The aforementioned Carrot Cake Cookie has had quite a journey at Hollywood Studios, launching its career at Writer’s Stop years ago and taking up residence at Sweet Spells permanently soon after. Its easily in my top three snacks at Disney World list. Carrot Cake Cookie at Sweet Spells But now, according to WDW Magic (usually a pretty reliable site), Sweet Spells will be closing on April 16, 2018, to be transformed into a store selling Pixar merchandise. The candy counter and production kitchen will be removed, and some fresh, non-packaged items will be available at counter service locations elsewhere in the park. We’re hoping that our favorites get shuttled over to Trolley Car Cafe, like the Butterfinger Cupcake (aka Peanut Butter Crunch Cupcake) and Napoleon from Starring Rolls. But nothing has been confirmed at this time. Stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for updates — Join Here! Get ALL of our Dining Recommendations…and MORE! The 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, is now available! With more than 650 pages, the 2018 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 order your copy of the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2018 to save 25% today! Use code WDW2018 at check-out for a 25% off the cover price! Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: New Whoopie Pies at Sweet Spells in Disney’s Hollywood Studios News: Starring Rolls Cafe in Hollywood Studios Closing February 5th #OnTheList: Carrot Cake Cookie in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! View the full article

A little something new popped up on the Walt Disney World website this morning… Woody’s Lunch Box Concept Art©Disney These new images below are of items that are likely coming to Woody’s Lunch Box when it opens along with the rest of Toy Story Land in Hollywood Studios on June 30th! Woody’s Lunch Box Square Tarts ©Disney The snacks above look like some play on a certain popular toaster tart, but with a twist. The frosting contributes to the overall “traditional” toaster tart feel. But those toppers give a little something new, don’t they? I believe I spy one topped with bits of bacon and what I’m assuming are maple or some other sort of sweet candy bits. And do my eyes deceive me, or are those rock-style candies (like Nerds®) topping the pink-frosted tarts?!? There is also a smaller image of a BBQ Brisket Melt, indicating an entree option. Screenshot of Disney World website Andy’s own lunch box will be turned on its side to create Woody’s Lunch Box. We’ve known for some time that Woody’s Lunch Box will offer Quick Service entrees for breakfast, lunch, and dinner to all of us “toys” visiting Toy Story Land. Toy Story Land Construction Walls “Classic American fare” will be up for grabs, along with old-fashioned soda floats and other Toy Story-themed items. But this is the very first glimpse of any actual items that will be served there. Though it seems far away at the moment, I think June 30th will be here before we know it! Is it June 30 yet?! And we’ll be keeping you posted of developments in Toy Story Land all along the way! Find out everything you need to know about Toy Story Land here! Are you as excited as we are for Toy Story Land to open? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: NEWS!! Toy Story Land Opens on June 30, 2018, in Disney World’s Hollywood Studios! News! Woody’s Lunch Box Quick Service Location Coming to Toy Story Land in Hollywood Studios Disney Daydreaming: Toy Story Land Dining Options View the full article

Several aging toddler attractions at Disney California Adventure Park could be bulldozed in the next year or so to make way for an expansion based on some of the world’s most popular fictional characters. The new land in Anaheim will feature superheroes made famous in Marvel comic books, movies... View the full article

The Mobile Order service launched last May in several Counter Service locations around Walt Disney World, and grabbing a quick bite in the parks hasn’t been the same since! Mobile Order Pickup at Casey’s Corner Launched within the My Disney Experience app, Mobile Order allows guests to pre-order and pre-pay for their food at participating Counter Service Restaurants around Disney World. Upon arrival to the restaurant, guests using Mobile Order can then bypass the ordering queue and go straight to a designated Pick Up Counter to get their food. Electric Umbrella Mobile Order pick-up counter And soon, this same service will be available to guests in Disneyland Resort via the Disneyland app! And here’s a BIG bonus for Disneyland Annual Passholders: you’ll be able to apply your discount via the app to meal purchases! Participating locations and the debut date have yet to be announced. But in the meantime, you can learn all about how the Mobile Order system works by visiting our Mobile Order page! Find step-by-step instructions for using Mobile Order here! And check out more Disneyland Food Fun here! Are you glad to know Mobile Order is on the way to Disneyland? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! Pre-Order Your DOLE WHIP at Magic Kingdom’s Aloha Isle with Mobile Order News: Mobile Order Arrives at Hollywood Studios with Backlot Express UPDATED: News: Disney World’s Mobile Order System Expands to Contempo Cafe at Contemporary Resort View the full article

Tonight’s “After Dark” image was snapped at Disneyland Paris of the park’s iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle. This 167-foot-tall castle, built to look as if it had been plucked straight from a fairytale, features soaring spires, ornate turrets, a series of stained glass windows, tapestries, and other magical touches. What do you love most about this Disney castle? Tell us in the “Comments” section below. View the full article

To celebrate Earth Month, Disneyland Resort cast members have created original works of art from recyclable items found in their work areas during the third annual Environmentality Art Challenge. The top ten finalists are featured here on the Disney Parks Blog, and in-person at the Disneyland Resort, for you to vote for your favorite! Hei Hei, Pick Up Your Trash Area: Miller Warehouse Scenic Fabrication & Art Services Materials Used: Wood, cardboard, plastic utensils, wire, artificial florals, paint, fabric, paper, packing foam, and styrene. Spirit Guided Designs Area: Disney Floral & Gifts / Amenity Design Materials Used: Tissue paper, newspaper, styrofoam, silk red rose petals, merchandise bag, cardboard, red paper plate, felt, mylar balloons, tulle, wire, various quality ribbon, card board rolls, Mickey head confetti, orange mesh, used highlighter, paper shred, string/cord, and wrapping paper Cap-TIN Phasma Area: World of Disney Materials Used: Aluminum cans, plastic utensils, plastic gift cards, plastic bags, clear plastic containers, plastic label wrapper, cardboard, and paper Adventure is Out There! Area: Disney Parks Live Entertainment, Entertainment Safety and Scenic Fabrications Materials Used: Used straws, cardboard, plastic that lines acrylic sheets, and plastic packaging Coco de la Tierra Area: Ontario Distribution Center Materials Used: Pallet wood, cardboard, wire, nuts and bolts, paper, aluminum cans, shipping labels, and all ink was supplied by re-using printer ribbons from labels Warrior Woman Area: Miller Warehouse Scenic Fabrication & Art Services Materials Used: Foam Easter egg, plastic containers, almond milk container, plastic spoons, repurposed wood, fabric, and paint Corks on a Canvas Area: Golden Vine Winery Materials Used: Wine bottle corks, plastic alcohol straws, recycled crayons, and recycled board Star Waste: A Renewable Hope Area: Animation Figure Finishing Materials Used: Scrap waste can, an old electric motor and LED’s from discarded Disney toys, sharpie pen bodies, plastic soda bottles, scrap metal, hot melt and fur from a refurbished Jungle Cruise hyena, wire, metallic foil, paper, foam board, used paint cups, and of course, Solo Cups for Han’s Stormtrooper armor. Star Spoons: BB-Ate Area: Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Housekeeping Materials Used: Plastic spoons, paper towels, soda cans, balloons left behind in Guest rooms, paper plates, coffee stir straws, aluminum foil, glue, cardboard, and lamp/light bulb left over from renovation. Plaza Inn-vironmentality Area: Plaza Inn Materials Used: Photo opp buttons, gift cards, wrappers from soda and water bottles, used post it notes, wrappers from paper reams, candy boxes, cereal boxes, green bean plastic liners, chimichanga plastic liners, corn bags, sausage paper liners, and plastic lining from popcorn buckets. Fill out my online form. The unique art gallery will be on display in the Main Street Opera House at Disneyland park until April 13, and then at the Redwood Creek Challenge Trail in Disney California Adventure park until April 21. On Earth Day, April 22, the gallery will be on display at the Downtown Disney District. The grand prize winner will receive apparel made from recycled content, compliments of Coca-Cola. We’ll update this post with the winning creation! View the full article

Today’s Disney Doodle, a series that imagines what a Disney character would do or see first if they visited a Disney theme park, focuses on one of my favorite characters – Maui. In the 2016 hit film “Moana,” demigod Maui has been trapped on an island for years, waiting for his chance to get a boat and escape, because despite his amazing powers, the one thing Maui can’t do is float. According to artist Ashley Taylor, Maui would like head for a tropical setting here at Walt Disney World Resort – and Typhoon Lagoon would be the ideal place! “Not only can I easily imagine Maui having fun in the sun at Typhoon Lagoon, I can picture him trying to use Typhoon’s Lagoon’s abandoned ships to sail off on his next adventure!” Ashley said. View the full article

Guests will soon have the opportunity to encounter the Master of the Mystic Arts, Doctor Strange, at Disney California Adventure park! Doctor Strange acts as an intermediary between the real world and what lies beyond, utilizing a vast array of metaphysical abilities and relics to protect the universe. Guests will soon get a glimpse into his magical, mind-bending world when he appears for the first time at the Disneyland Resort. Doctor Strange travels great distances in an instant by opening portals between dimensions. There’s no telling where and when he might appear, so be sure to stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for more information! Encounter more of your favorite heroes now at Disney California Adventure park, including Black Panther, Spider-Man and Captain America! View the full article

A new mobile ordering service will soon be available at the Disneyland Resort! Mobile ordering is just one more option for guests to further customize their Disney vacations, allowing them to conveniently place orders at select fast casual and quick-service restaurant locations using the Disneyland App from anywhere across the resort. Using the new mobile ordering service, guests will be able to easily search for a participating location, select an arrival time window for pickup, choose items from the menu and place their order. As an added convenience, Annual Passholders will be able to apply their discount to meal purchases using the app. Guests notify the restaurant of their arrival on the app and within minutes, an app notification indicates the meal is ready to pick up at a designated window – without ever waiting in line to order and pay. The mobile ordering functionality is part of our continued efforts to enhance the guest experience. Combined with the recently launched Disney MaxPass, also part of the Disneyland App, guests will spend more time with family and friends enjoying everything Disneyland Resort has to offer – including the upcoming Pixar Fest celebration! We’ll share more details soon, including which guest favorite locations will be featured. View the full article