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Disneyland Resort invited 22 high school students from the Girls Who Code Summer Immersion Program this week for a glimpse at the technology behind the magic at Disney Parks, including the all-new Play Disney Parks app! After a special demonstration to learn how the app’s games and experiences were created, the group enjoyed the “Playset Party” game together in the queue of Toy Story Mania. The girls also learned more about how machine learning has been used to make magic for guests in our parks around the world. “I know technology and coding is used in the Disney Parks so I was really excited to find out what aspects it’s used for that I didn’t realize,” said Guadalupe. “It was interesting seeing how they use coding and different programs to make technology work, like in the Play Disney Parks app,” added Dana. In addition to their trip to Disneyland Resort, the group has taken part in other unique field trips this summer, including visits to Walt Disney Imagineering Research and Development, Inc. and Walt Disney Animation Studios. They also took part in speaker sessions with leaders across Disney, including Marvel Studios’ Executive Vice President of Physical Production Victoria Alonso and Chief Information Officer of The Walt Disney Company and Executive Vice President of Enterprise Technology Susan O’Day. This marks the third year Disney has hosted the company-wide program to teach students about technology and help close the gender gap in technology fields. View the full article

Hello from the Monorail Resorts! Nothing makes us happier than boarding the Monorail on our way to the Magic Kingdom! This time we stopped at each resort along the way and collected a bunch of updates for you! Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Aloha! If you’re catching the rays at the main pool and need a nosh you can now go to the Barefoot Pool Bar and order food from the Oasis Pool Bar and Grill. This is for a limited time only during the busy season. Polynesian Village Resort’s Barefoot Bar Menu The Barefoot Bar will also at times have a Frosty Pineapple Slush (think a slushy version of the Spiked Dole Whip) here. You won’t find it on the official menu since it isn’t offered consistently. The slush is $11.00 when offered. Cool off with a Spike Dole Whip Slush at Polynesian Village Resort’s Barefoot Bar And speaking of Spiked Dole Whip…grab your Dole Whip with Coruba Pineapple Rum at the Pineapple Lanai! Dole Whip with Rum sign Kona Island Coffee Bar added some more grab and go options including cookies and cupcakes from Captain Cook’s, and Erin McKenna’s gluten-free snacks! Grab-and-Go Items at Kona Island Tambu Lounge is still open (it was rumored to close after July 4). We were told it will now be closing August 5 with a planned re-opening in early November. While Tambu is closed there will be two temporary bars set up to fill the void. During the day the location will be by the windows to the left of the monorail station entrance. At night it will be by the windows of the ‘Ohana waiting area. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Our next stop was Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort where we found some new treats and merchandise! Next Stop: Disney’s Grand Floridian! Gasparilla Island Grill joined in on The Incredibles fun this summer by adding a Dash cupcake to their menu. Be sure to catch this soon because we’re guessing this will be gone in a flash! Dash in to Gasparilla Island Grill for this cupcake You’ll also find some new wines by the glass or bottle options at Gasparilla Island Grill as well. New Wine by Glass and Bottle Options at Gasparilla Island Grill New Wine by Glass and Bottle Options at Gasparilla Island Grill OK, we couldn’t resist stopping in Basin on our way back to the Monorail. Check out these cute summer soaps! Summer Soaps at Basin! Disney’s Contemporary Resort You know our next stop – the Contemporary! It is home to one of our go-to counter service locations – Contempo Cafe, distinctive art work, and great shops! Let’s jump in with what’s happening at Contempo Cafe. New Cupcake at Contempo Cafe Topped with a Mini Macaron They aren’t being left out of the iridescent craze at Contempo Cafe! There are two new sparkly cupcakes available – take your pick – one topped with a mini macaron or one topped with sparkly Minnie Mouse ears. Either one is $5.99 and Disney Dining Plan snack credit eligible. New Iridescent Cupcake at Contempo Cafe A Grilled Salmon Rice Bowl and a Seared Chicken Rice Bowl have also been added to the menu at Contempo Cafe. New Menu Items at Contempo Cafe Oh boy! We absolutely fell in love with all of the new Contemporary Themed Merchandise available at Buena Vista Gifts! You’ve got to get your hands on this stuff! New Contemporary Merchandise We can’t wait to drink out of this AMAZING mug! They picked up on Mary Blair’s style perfectly! New Contemporary Merchandise Check out the back of this mug! Ahh, cuteness overload! New Contemporary Merchandise Plus, they have this awesome hat! New Contemporary Merchandise It features the five-legged goat — an “easter egg” Mary Blair put into her mural to remind us that nothing created by a human is perfect. See if you can find him on the actual mural! He’s hiding… . New Contemporary Merchandise And shot glasses! Seriously, we are going broke here. New Contemporary Merchandise And there’s more – this adorable ornament we are putting out all year! Plus keychains and magnets! New Contemporary Merchandise Not be outdone – Edna Mode has made her appearance on a super-stylish (of course) tote bag Edna Mode Tote She also pops up on this mug and plate set. You can find these in the parks as well. Edna Mode Mug and Plate Set If you’re exhausted after all this eating and shopping there are some new soft and comfy chairs outside of the Fantasia Market Shop by the windows facing the Magic Kingdom. Perfect for fireworks viewing! New comfy chairs in the Contemporary Disney’s All Star Sports Resort We were so excited we already shared with you one of the new items at All Star Sports Resort’s End Zone Food Court – the edible cookie dough! Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cup Yes! You can get your cookie dough fix at All Star Sports Resort for $3.99. We checked and it is egg-free, so dig in friends! Cookie Dough Not to be outdone by the Contempo Cafe’s new cupcakes the End Zone Food Court offers two new cupcakes – and one of them jumps in on iridescent craze! Check out this cupcake. Does it have a bit of a tie-dye thing going on as well? All Star Sports End Zone Iridescent Cupcake Stitch jumped in the action, too, getting his own cupcake! The iridescent and the Stitch cupcake are each $5.99. All Star Sports End Zone Stitch Cupcake Disney is also working on a refurbishment on the back portion of the seating area in the End Zone Food Court. For now you can find extra seating inside the arcade across from the food court entrance. Extra seating during End Zone refurbishment in the arcade And last, but not least. In celebration of the recent Hot Dog Eating Contests held over July 4 around the country the gift shop is offering this retro and fun shirt! Are you the hot dog eating champ? Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! 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? 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: End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort Closed For Renovations What’s New at Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom and Resorts! June 21, 2018 What’s New at Animal Kingdom (Satu’li Menu Updates!) and the All-Star Resorts?? View the full article

Being a cast member at the Disneyland Resort is a special experience with a long and rich history of traditions and exclusive opportunities that are unlike anything else. However, ask any cast member who’s worked here for several decades what the must-do cast-exclusive event is, and nearly all will tell you without hesitation, it’s the Canoe Races. Back after a two-year hiatus to accommodate work on the Rivers of America, the Canoe Races remain a popular part of the cast member experience for veteran and new cast alike, with nearly 70 teams from around the Walt Disney Company rising early for the pre-park opening dash around the river. “This brings the cast together in a way no other event can,” said Cast Activities Program Manager Rick Henson, who began his Disney career as a merchandise host at the Disneyland Hotel 37 years ago, and has helped oversee the Canoe Races for the last 16 years. “I’ve had cast members tell me how they heard about the races before they started working here, and it was so special once they became a cast member to be able to form a team. I’m honored to be the person who gets to put on these races and keep the tradition alive.” While Canoe Races represent the long legacy of cast traditions, newer cast-exclusive opportunities that promote wellness and healthy living have also become popular annual events, including Sunrise Yoga at Sleeping Beauty Castle and the Cast Member, Friends and Family 5K, which took place Saturday, July 14. Tim Sullivan is the Fitness Program Manager in charge of coordinating the early morning run through the parks, and says these events serve as a kind of family reunion for cast members. “We have so many cast members that have been working here for a number of years,” says Tim, who himself is a 22-year Disneyland Resort veteran, starting his career as a Jungle Cruise Skipper. “It’s so fun to see them run into each other and talk about where they are now in their professional Disney careers, introduce their families and reminisce about their time together working in the parks. This place means a lot to so many of us, and to be able to have these events in the park, before or after hours is really special.” Cast members pride themselves on creating happiness – for the guests and for each other – and having opportunities to enjoy the Disneyland Resort in unique and exclusive ways is one longstanding tradition that will always be a special part of being a cast member. View the full article

A 71-year-old tourist with a pre-existing condition suffered a heart attack and died last month after he was in the wave pool at Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park, according to a state report released Monday. The report said it happened June 10 at Melt-Away Bay, which Disney describes on its website... View the full article

A 70-year-old man with a preexisting heart condition suffered a heart attack and died last month after he was in the wave pool at Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park, according to a state report released Monday. The man was not named in the report. The June 10 incident, according to the state report,... View the full article

Hello, there! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re sharing reasons why you should totally visit Animal Kingdom Lodge during your Disney World vacation even if you aren’t staying there! Welcome to Animal Kingdom Lodge Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is SO much more than just a Resort hotel. It’s also a home to beautiful animals, host to unique activities, and a place where you can enjoy some truly memorable Disney dining. Check out all the reasons why you should visit Animal Kingdom Lodge during your next trip to Disney World (even if you’re staying somewhere else) in our latest DFB YouTube Video! And if you love this video, there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel! By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode! So check out the video and then let us know: What is your favorite thing about Animal Kingdom Lodge? 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: Eat THIS at Disney’s World’s Animal Kingdom Lodge DFB Video: Food Tour of Animal Kingdom’s Asia DFB Video: Food Tour of Animal Kingdom’s Africa View the full article

In our month-long Christmas in July series, the Disney Parks Moms Panelists are talking all things holidays, and this week the panelists are sharing the advantages of being a Disney Vacation Club member during the festive season. “Christmas is when you truly appreciate the Disney Vacation Club’s home away from home atmosphere. We always bring some holiday decorations with us, including a Christmas tree to put up during our holiday stay,” explains Disney Parks Moms Panelist, Anna. “With the full kitchen in the one bedroom and larger Disney Vacation Club villas, I like to cook some of our family’s holiday favorites – a baked ham on Christmas Eve and fresh cinnamon rolls to start off Christmas morning. We open gifts, share family traditions, and then get to enjoy the Walt Disney World Resort theme parks. It’s the best of both worlds.” “What do DVC members think of when the summer sun is hot and many of us have our sandy toes in warm beach waters?” asks Jerry. “We think of snowflakes on Main Street, U.S.A. and sweaters on Mickey, of course! By nature, Disney Vacation Club members are always thinking ahead and planning our next magical stay. And when it comes to the holidays, we as members can always look forward to lots of membership magic.” Jerry also enjoys the special discounts members can enjoy for celebrating the spirit of the season at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party on select nights. Disney Vacation Club members can also enjoy exclusive, special holiday events that are offered on both coasts for Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Being a Disney Vacation Club member may also mean being able to celebrate the season in a completely different fashion. For Jennifer L. and her family, there is nothing more magical than using their membership to celebrate the Christmas season at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa. “Aulani is my family’s favorite Christmas destination. Holiday touches are literally around every corner. I love the exotic Hawaiian flowers decorating trees and garland throughout the breathtaking lobby. My son loves hunting for mischievous Menehune hiding around the entire Resort, and this time of year means they are wearing festive Santa hats. Disney Characters visiting the Resort for the season are also dressed in their holiday best, but with a Hawaiian flare, of course!” For more information on a Disney Vacation Club membership, or for general Disney vacation planning tips, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from our knowledgeable panel. View the full article

Every day brings us just a bit closer to the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! And we’re getting to the point where nearly each week is starting to reveal a bit more information about the Festival as well. Take, for instance, the 2018 Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations — Beverage Seminars, Culinary Demonstrations, and the new Food & Beverage Pairings among them. Though we shared the scheduled presenters for these low-cost seminars in June, there were — as is typical upon release — a few presenters and topics listed as “To Be Announced.” But now, most of those items have been filled in! So if the dates you are planning to visit the Food & Wine Festival had some previously undetermined events, be sure to look over the Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations Page here to see if your dates have been updated so you can make sure you’re making the most of all of your Festival options! Click here to visit the 2018 Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations Page! Ready to Plan for Your 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Trip? Pre-Order the DFB Guide to the 2018 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book today and start planning now! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Pre-Order your 2018 edition today! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% off the cover price! Are you attending a seminar or demonstration at the Food and Wine Festival this year? 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: Festival Center Updates for the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival BOOKING NOW OPEN! Epcot Food and Wine Festival Early Booking Date Confirmed For Select Groups! View the full article

In our Disney Doodle series, different Disney artists take turns imagining what different Disney characters would do or see first if they had the chance to visit Walt Disney World Resort. In today’s Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what some of my favorite characters – the Aristocats – would do if they had the chance to visit a Disney resort hotel. “The kittens from ‘The Aristocats’ love playing the piano and showcasing their talents,” she said. “It’s easy to imagine them having fun at the piano keys pool at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort!” View the full article

I’m not sure that if we willingly go to a theme park in Florida in the summer that we have a right to complain about the heat. But if we’re taken against our will or go just because we’re being nice to visiting farflung friends and family, what can we do but follow my first rule of theme parking:... View the full article

Toy Story Land is officially OPEN and if you’re ready to start planning your next Disney World vacation, TODAY is a great day to get our DFB Guides! Woody says, “Howdy!” at Toy Story Land! To celebrate summer AND the Grand Opening of Toy Story Land ALL of our DFB Guides are 50% off with promo code LUCKYDAY! Whether you’re planning a summertime visit to Toy Story Land (and beyond!) or a fall vacation for the 2108 Epcot Food and Wine Festival, or family trip to celebrate the Holiday season, we have a DFB Guide Bundle for you! And with a 180 day dining booking window and 60 day FastPass+ booking window, it’s NEVER too early to start planning! From our DFB Guide + Snacks Bundle to our Food and Wine Bundle, — these books are MUST reads for anyone heading to the Disney parks this year! BUNDLES Mean BIG Savings! Our Bundles are always a great deal but today they’re an even better deal — you get a collection of some of our best DFB Guides that are already discounted, AND you get an additional 50% off with promo code LUKCYDAY! Looking for the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining but want to read about every single snack in the parks, too? Then check our our DFB Guide + Snacks Bundle! Epcot Food and Wine Festival fans will love the Food & Wine Bundle that includes the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining and the pre-order for the 2018 Food & Wine Guide! And if you want ALL of it, every single DFB Guide in our collection? We have you covered there, too! Check out our DFB Everything Bundle! Wanna know more before you commit? See what other readers just like you are saying about our collection of DFB Guide Books at the DFB Store Testimonials Page! Remember, with a 100% money-back guarantee on all of our guides, you have nothing to lose! Visit the DFB Store today and use promo code LUCKYDAY to get 50% off any DFB Guide! But HURRY this sale ends tonight! As always, we thank you for your continued support of Disney Food Blog! Happy summer reading! 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: Start Your Disney Planning Today! Save 35% off All DFB Guide e-Book Bundles Start Your Disney Trip Planning With The DFB Guide Mother’s Day Sale! Last DAY! Save BIG and Start Planning Your Next Disney Trip with the DFB Guides! View the full article

Happy weekend! Here’s all the Disney food news this week! Oatmeal Cookie Sandwich TOY STORY LAND IS OPEN at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!!! Click here to see ALL of our coverage!! Booking is NOW OPEN for the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! Find out EVERYTHING you need to know about the festival on our Epcot Food and Wine Festival pages! Pixar Fest is ON at Disneyland Resort! This fun festival runs through September 3! Click here to get a checklist for ALL the food at Pixar Fest and see our review! 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 We checked out what’s NEW at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Pop Century, and Art of Animation! We shared some tips on planning for the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. We checked out the ESPN Club at Disney’s BoardWalk! New menu items were announced for the 2018 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic! Check out the new holiday merchandise at Disney World. We have details on the July Burger of the Month at The Edison. The Lighthouse Sandwich is back on the menu at Columbia Harbour House! Le Rendez-vous Gourmand Food and Wine Festival is returning to Disneyland Paris. We know what Disney World restaurants are participating in Orlando Magical Dining Month! Check out where to find Spiked Dole Whip at Disney World! We have details on a VERY limited-time ‘Ant-Man and the Wasp’-inspired menu at Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar! You can get your edible cookie dough fix at Disney World! You need to check out this Oatmeal Cookie Sandwich at Pop Century. We checked out what’s new at the Magic Kingdom this week. Toy Story Land Passholder Playtime opened for reservations…and promptly sold out! We shared some tips on Disney World Resort Hotel activities for the whole family. How many days should you plan to attend the Epcot Food and Wine Festival? We shared some tips. The Dole Whip Donut returned to Disneyland. We have all the details on the newest color craze at Disney World – Iridescent everything! Boozy Beignets are now on the menu at Port Orleans French Quarter. Check out what’s new and what’s returning for the holiday season at Disney World! Two new snacks debuted on the menu at Golden Oak Outpost in the Magic Kingdom. Another unicorn cupcake has been spotted at Disney World! We reviewed everything on the breakfast menu at Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land. A Disney World employee died in an accident at Pop Century. New DFB YouTube videos: Things You’d Never Think You’d Need at Disney World, Hollywood Studios Food Tour, Part 2, Best New Eats in Disney This Week, and Disney World Myths Debunked. 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: Disney World Myths Debunked 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 — Disney World Myths Debunked! Check it out — and don’t forget to subscribe here. Deal of the Week: It’s Your Lucky Day! 50% off Everything at the DFB Store! ENDS Tonight! Today is your lucky day — and a great day to start planning your next Disney World vacation — because we’re having a huge sale at the DFB Store! To celebrate Friday the 13th, everything at the DFB Store is 50% off with promo code LUCKYDAY! Whether you’re planning a trip to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, heading to WDW next year with your family, or making plans for a holiday visit, we have a DFB Guide for you! From our 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining to our DFB Guide to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival and the DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays — not to mention our detailed snack-focused guides — these books are MUST reads for anyone heading to the Disney parks this year! BUNDLE for Savings! Our Bundles are a great deal today – you get a collection of some of our best DFB Guides that are already discounted, AND you get an additional 50% off with promo code LUCKYDAY! That’s like a sale on top of a sale! Looking for the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining but want to know about the best snacks too? Then check our our DFB Guide + Snacks Bundle! Food and Wine Festival fans will love the Food & Wine Bundle that includes the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining and the 2018 Food & Wine Guide! And if you want ALL of it — we have you covered there, too! Check out our DFB Everything Bundle! Wanna know more before you commit? See what other readers just like you are saying about our collection of DFB Guide Books at the DFB Store Testimonials Page! Remember, with a 100% money-back guarantee on all of our guides, you have nothing to lose! Visit the DFB Store today and use promo code LUCKYDAY to get 50% off any DFB Guide or Bundle! But HURRY! This sale ends SOON! 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. We always love seeing our DFB readers enjoying Disney Parks around the world! Hilary_JW recently shared her experince at Walt’s Restaurant in Disneyland Paris: “Wonderful presentation as always at Walt’s Restaurant Disneyland Paris (and shout-out to my server for putting up with my ridiculous questions about prawns!)” Ha ha! Love this! Looks like an incredible meal! Iridescent is the new color craze at Disney World and my good friend DizThruBrwnEyes shared this gorgeous photo of the the Iridescent Blue Sparking wine and the Unicorn Macaroon lollipop at Amorette’s Patisserie! So pretty! Almost too pretty to eat and drink. Almost. ;-D Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix shared this cute must-have T-shirt! WDW for Grownups shared the latest Disney food news. Disneyland shared a recipe for Potato Skins from the new Lamplight Lounge. Disney Family shared a recipe for the Ultimate Mickey Sundae. 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: July 1, 2018 Disney Food News This Week: July 8, 2018 Disney Food News This Week: June 17, 2018 View the full article

Today is National Ice Cream Day, and if you’re a Disney Parks fan, then you know there’s nothing better than celebrating with a cool and tasty Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bar. The famous Mickey Bar is one of the most iconic Disney treats ever created and can be found at all of our parks and resorts across the world! In addition to the Mickey Bar, though, did you know we have some other fun treats themed after everyone’s favorite mouse? For starters, you can find a Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Sandwich alongside those Mickey Bars at most snack carts throughout our parks and resorts. There’s also Mickey’s Kitchen Sink! This fun novelty item can be found at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts. At Plaza Ice Cream Parlor at Magic Kingdom Park, you can get it filled with a your choice of two hand-scoops of ice cream and topped with hot fudge topped, peanut butter or caramel, and whipped cream. Or at Clarabelle’s Hand Scooped Ice Cream at Disney California Adventure park, you can get it filled with a sundae inspired by Mickey’s friend, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. This sundae comes with scoops of vanilla and chocolate ice cream, whipped cream, hot fudge, chocolate morsels, cherries, and two chocolate-dipped bananas. Also at Clarabelle’s Hand Scooped Ice Cream, you can get the popular Hand-dipped Ice Cream Bars with your choice of ice cream bar flavor, chocolate coating, and a topping of your choice. And one of those toppings just might include some Mickey-shaped sprinkles! If you’re hanging with your pals in Toon Town at Disneyland park, you can stop by Clarabelle’s to try the Mickey and Minnie Mouse Sundaes. Perfect for a couple of friends, these sundaes come with vanilla, chocolate, or Swirl Dannon Soft-Serve Frozen Yogurt, chocolate candies, and either a red bow tie or a polka dot bow. At Walt Disney World Resort, take a break at the Oasis Canteen at Disney’s Hollywood Studios to try a Mickey-themed Cookies ‘n Cream Funnel Cake. Topped with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, cookies ‘n cream crumbles, two cookie ears, hot fudge, and powdered sugar, it’s the perfect summer treat! Of course, if you’re just wanting that ice cream cone with some adorable ears, just head on back to Plaza Ice Cream Parlor at Magic Kingdom Park and try the flavor of the month. This month’s ice cream flavor is peanut butter! And I hear that August’s flavor is going to be Fudge Tracks! Now for the Mickey Bar super fans out there, you’ll be excited to know that we’ve got plenty of cool merchandise to help you rep your favorite Disney Parks ice cream bar! Recently added to the collection, the Mickey Bar Headband takes center stage among Mickey Bar magnets, pet squeaky toys, plush, shirts, and even a PHONE CASE! All of these items can be found at various merchandise locations throughout Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, and I may or may not have already purchased most of them myself … So why not celebrate the National Ice Cream Day with your favorite pal, Mickey? Whether you’re staying cool this summer with a Mickey Bar or going all-out with Mickey’s Kitchen Sink Sundae, you’re sure to have a tasty time! What Disney Parks ice cream treat is your favorite? View the full article

This week, we looked ahead to the holidays with an information-packed Moms Panel Monday post before announcing the return of the holiday season to Walt Disney World Resort – on November 8. Starting November 8, you will be able to celebrate with festive parties, captivating holiday décor, delicious treats, spectacular entertainment and enchanting experiences that make this season one of the most wonderful times to visit our theme parks, resorts and more! Check out Sarah’s Holidays at Walt Disney World Resort story for more details or visit disneyworld.com/holidays. And at Disneyland Resort, we shared four digital experiences you must try before and during your next visit. We started with the Disneyland App – the one-stop-shop for Disneyland Resort that makes trip planning a breeze. To learn more about the Disneyland App, Disney MaxPass, Mobile Ordering and the all-new Play Disney Parks app, visit Michael’s original Digital Experiences at Disneyland Resort story. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Disney Parks Blog Readers ‘Play Big’ in Toy Story Land – Just a few days after the grand debut of Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, 250 Disney Parks Blog readers were welcomed into the land for a very special Disney Parks Blog Toy Story Land celebration. Staying Cool While Exploring the Disneyland Resort – With temperatures heating up in Southern California, you may be looking for a few cool tips to beat the heat during your summer visit to the Disneyland Resort. Orlando City Soccer Club Takes On Toy Story Land-Inspired Drills – The Major League Soccer season is in full swing and we discovered that Orlando City Soccer Club players love to “play big” just like guests are doing at the new Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. A Wedding ‘Story’ That Found Inspiration in Disney Park Guide Maps – Ben and Kylie’s Story, two Central Florida residents (and self-proclaimed theme park fanatics) grabbed quite a lot of attention on social channels a few weeks ago when their jaw-dropping Disney Parks-inspired wedding attire hit Twitter. 4 Must-Try Digital Experiences at Disneyland Resort This Summer – Summer is here, and what better way to celebrate than with a trip to Disneyland Resort? It’s never been easier to enjoy time with your family and friends thanks to the suite of digital offerings now available at the resort. Ring In the New Year at Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World – Planning ahead for big holiday events is very important, and New Year’s Eve is right there at the top of the list. This year, if you’re looking for a unique experience outside of the theme parks, Disney’s Contemporary Resort is the place to be. Iridescent Sweets at Disney Parks – There’s a shiny new trend coming to Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts – and it’s as tasty as it is beautiful! Iridescent treats are now available on both coasts, and they go brilliantly with those adorable Iridescent Headbands and Iridescent Spirit Jerseys that you might have seen around the parks recently! View the full article

Walt Disney World has something for everyone — from rides and attractions to resorts and dining. Today we’re visiting a sports fan’s go-to table service spot in Disney World: ESPN Club! Learn About: ESPN Club Boardwalk Restaurants Disney World Restaurants ESPN Club is an active, energetic restaurant located at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort and Villas. And as you might expect, it’s not only sports-themed from the walls to the menu, it’s also a fantastic place to watch the big game. And since the World Cup is still lighting up screens around the globe, it’s important to know that there are TVs EVERYWHERE. Even in the bathrooms. Yup, you don’t have to miss a second of the game. (Priorities.) The food, which might very well be secondary for a lot of diners, is OK. It’s no Flying Fish or Abracadabar — both located just a stone’s throw away. But you’re not really at ESPN Club for the eats; you’re there for the game! And the good news is: the food will fuel you long after the final whistle blows! ESPN Club Atmosphere The name of the game at ESPN Club is televised sports. And so the atmosphere really revolves around large screens sharing the latest must-watch games and events. Televisions at ESPN Club As expected, it’s not quiet in here. And that’s a good thing! You can cheer and jeer as needed without worrying about disturbing your neighbors! There’s also some cool memorabilia lining the walls (and hanging from the ceiling), so take a stroll during half time to check it all out! Bar Seating During football season, there’s even a designated VIP room, where you can sit if you’ve booked an ADR for a specific game. Check out our tips for getting a seat for game day, football season or otherwise! Here’s the Room Where VIP Seats are Located Oh, and here are those TVs in the bathrooms. Restroom Stall TV Basically the atmosphere here — aside from potential rowdiness during a big game — is standard chain restaurant style. It’s utilitarian, and honestly it’s what we expect from the ESPN Club. So let’s check out the game day eats! ESPN Club Menu and Eats A meal at ESPN Club might very well start with your favorite game day drink — and there’s a drink menu for that! It’s packed with Home Run Brews from a variety of producers, as well as Championship Spirits, Red vs. White, and Draft Picks. We love the clever categories. ESPN Club Drinks Menu Eats are also cleverly named: Pregame Appetizers, Season Ticket Sandwiches, Game Time Entrees, Slam Dunk Salads and Soups, No-No’s and a Cup of Coffee, and Post Game Desserts. ESPN Club Menu I jumped on the appetizer bandwagon and ordered a few different options. First up: the Seasonal Soup, which happened to be one of my favorites, Tomato Bisque. This soup was okay — nothing special but still palatable. And it could be nice to start a potentially four-quarters-long meal with something a little lighter. Soup of the Day — Tomato Bisque The Warm Soft Pretzels and Dips are a share-able way to start a meal at ESPN Club, and because they come with three Dipping Sauces, they’re kind of customizable! Sauces include Sriracha Beer Cheese Sauce, Green Chili-Cheddar Cheese Sauce, and IPA Mustard. ESPN Club Pretzels The pretzel breadsticks themselves were good — fresh and hot. I didn’t get that weird crunchy-hard, stale feel and taste that can accompany pretzel breadsticks that have been sitting around for a while. But since I like the option for sweet dipping sauces in addition to the savory, I scanned the dessert menu and asked for sides of Caramel and Chocolate Sauces. This is a great tip when dining in restaurants in general — if it’s on the menu, they have it in the kitchen. So if you’d like to augment your dish, it never hurts to ask. ESPN Club Pretzel with all the Dipping Sauces Tater tots (or potato barrels, as Disney often calls them) are also on the menu here, and they’re Loaded Tots with Brisket, Beer-Cheese Sauce, Caramelized Onions, Pico de Gallo, and Scallions. You had me at Beer-Cheese Sauce, for real. These were good and indulgent. I had to dig a while to get to the brisket and it ended up being one big clump of meat versus shredded meat spread more thoroughly throughout the dish. I think that was just a bad plating, though. I imagine most of the time the brisket is better integrated. Loaded Tater Tots Entrees at ESPN Club cover the bases, including burgers and sandwiches, pasta, and lighter fare like salads and fish tacos. I opted for a couple of heavy options. The White Cheddar Pasta and Cheese is a heaping serving of Campanelle Pasta, Pork Belly, and Panko Bread Crumbs. ESPN Club Entrees The White Cheddar cheese sauce was a little on the runny side — so the pasta isn’t weighed down terribly with it. Salty Pork Belly is great when you get some in a bite. And that arugula on top is a good contrast. It’s not a three-point shot at the buzzer, but it’s good. White Cheddar Pasta and Cheese The Smokehouse Burger is a winner for the burger-inclined. It looks great on the platter, the meat was cooked appropriately, the accompaniments were fresh and flavorful, and I love a Waffle Fry. Smokehouse Burger The burger comes branded, and it’s held together with a baseball-topped pick. Fun touches! ESPN Brand on the Buns The Smokehouse Burger is topped with Tillamook Cheddar Cheese, Jalapeno, Applewood-Smoked Bacon, Onion Straws, Chipotle Aioli, Lettuce, and Tomato. The bacon really makes a statement here, and I enjoyed the spicy touches from the aioli and ample jalapenos. Smokehouse Burger Plus it’s always nice to get a burger that’s juicy and cooked to order. The layering of flavors on this one is also great. Again: it’s not going to change your life, but it’s still tasty! Smokehouse Burger Cross Section Desserts here — Post Game Desserts! — are creative, starting with the S’mores Bread Pudding. Bread pudding at Walt Disney World is always a gamble (especially because this category includes two of my all-time favorite Disney desserts: ‘Ohana Bread Pudding and Toffee Bread Pudding from House of Blues), and this one was a little ho-hum despite all of its components. The S’mores Ice Cream on top was a bit cloying, but I did enjoy the few bits of Graham Cracker that were scattered about. Toasted Marshmallows don’t hurt, either. But overall, it’s a little one-note for me. L S’mores Bread Pudding Fruit Crisp (or cobbler) is always a draw for me, and while this one was a sizable portion, the relative lack of streusel — my favorite part, normally — was disappointing. If you’ve gotta have some warm fruit with ice cream on it, this will work. But it’s not a stand out. Fruit Crisp The Carolina Buttermilk Pie was the most satisfying of the dessert options I tried, largely because it had some interesting and contrasting components. The so-called Mascerated Fruits on the side were… not mascerated. But I appreciate a fresh fruit component in a dessert. Carolina Buttermilk Pie The pie itself was good — creamy and dense and ensconced in a great crunchy crust. The ball of Whipped Cream was yummy, too. Carolina Buttermilk Pie The Post Game Desserts were a fun way to end the meal, and while none is worth making ESPN Club a destination, they’re fine for the environment and overall vibe of the meal. Nosh or Not? Dance in the endzone at ESPN Club if: You’ve gotta, gotta see the big game — theme parks can wait! You love a rowdy, festive restaurant! You’re looking for a chain restaurant-style dining experience for your picky eaters. Trade to another (dining) team if: You prefer more upscale dining. You don’t have time to watch the game — Toy Story Land is calling! Dining in a loud, flashy restaurant stresses you out. Overall ESPN Club serves a pretty specific purpose at Walt Disney World: it’s a destination for watching the big game where you can also eat some filling, big game-worthy grub. And while it’s got a chain restaurant feel, we don’t hate it. There’s totally a place for this atmosphere in the World, and we’re glad for it! But don’t forget that pretty much all the food here is going to be the same quality you’ll get at a Chili’s, basically, so that’s about how high the bar goes here at ESPN Club. Get More Honest Reviews and All The Info You Need For Your Disney Trip With Our DFB Guide! Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! 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. Where’s your favorite place to watch the game at Walt Disney World? Tell us about it 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: Getting the Best Spot for the Big Game: Strategizing and NEW VIP Seating at Disney World’s ESPN Club Review: ESPN Club in Walt Disney World Review: The Peanut Butter and Jelly and Bacon and Jalapeno Burger at ESPN Club View the full article

Happy Weekend! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re sharing the BEST NEW EATS in Disney World and Disneyland from this past week! Baton Rouge Beignets with Baileys The Disney dining scene is ever-changing, so we are always on the lookout for new eats in Disney World and Disneyland. But, WOW, did this past week ever deliver!! So we’re showing you everything from Boozy Beignets to a GIGANTIC Burger to a refreshing float based on a beloved attraction and more… all from just this past week! Check out the best new eats in Disney World and Disneyland from the past week in our latest DFB YouTube Video! And if you love this video, there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel! By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode! So check out the video and then let us know: What’s your favorite new Disney treat lately? 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: DFB Video: Best Disney World Snack Breakfasts! DFB Video: The BEST Things That Happened To Me in Disney World Last Week! DFB Video: 5 BRAND NEW Disney World Desserts You NEED to Try! View the full article

The 9th annual Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic takes place Friday, October 26, and Saturday, October 27, 2018. Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic This popular two-night event coincides with the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival and includes The Causeway, Seminars, and three special food locations — and today we have details on several new menu items joining the lineup this year! Carnival Corner Home to the popular Hand-Dipped Corn Dogs and Funnel Cakes, Carnival Corner is adding two new items to the menu this fall! First is the Little Smokies Sausage with Sweet Brown Sugar Barbeque Sauce and Cheez-It. Little Smokies Sausage: Sweet Brown Sugar Barbeque Sauce, Cheez-It The other new dish at Carnival Corner is Frito Pie featuring House Made Chili, Corn Chips, Sour Cream, Pico de Gallo, Cheddar Cheese, Selection of Hot Sauces! Frito Pie: House Made Chili, Corn Chips, Sour Cream, Pico de Gallo, Cheddar Cheese, Selection of Hot Sauces We can’t wait to try both of these dishes this year! Desserts and Pastries If you’re looking for something sweet on your visit to the Food and Wine Classic, there are SIX new dessert items available on the Causeway! On Friday evening guests can enjoy three desserts: Tropical Fruit Charlotte with Passion Fruit Mini Charlotte, Vanilla Crémeux, Mango Coulis, and Coconut Sable; an All Chocolate Choux featuring Crunchy Chocolate Choux, Chocolate Crémeux, Chocolate Whipped Cream, and Chocolate Sable; and a Blackberry Bubble Cup with Blackberry Compote, Mascarpone Cream, Blackberry Marshmallow, and Strawberry Crispy Pearls. Friday dessert selections And Saturday night will feature three different choices: a Banana Lime Tart: Clafoutis with Passion Fruit Marinated Bananas, Lime Peel Bavaroise, and a Sugar Flower; a Nutella Truffle featuring Hazelnut Crémeux with Hazelnut Crunch, and Hazelnut Dacquoise; and Raspberry Litchi Bubble: Raspberry Compote, Litchi Bavaroise, Raspberry Sauce, and Raspberry Marshmallow. Saturday dessert options Don’t forget, in addition to the special areas like Carnival Corner, the 2018 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic features more than 40 tasting stations with dishes from the resort’s 17 restaurants and lounges as well as more than 30 wineries on the Causeway. Click here for the full menus for the 2018 WDW Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic! You can also enjoy The Beer Garden, Seminars, and the Sunday Bubbles Brunch. Tickets and More Tickets for one night of the Causeway only are $127 per person. One night of the Causeway plus Beer Garden is $155 per person. A La Carte ticket booklets containing 25 tickets will be available for purchase at the event for $50. These tickets are perfect for those with a lighter appetite or for underage guests. Offerings range from two to six tickets per item. To book Seminar tickets or purchase Causeway Tickets, visit the Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic website. To book a package, including hotel stay and tickets to Food and Wine Classic offerings, contact the Swan and Dolphin at 888-828-8850. Check out our review of the 2017 WDW Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic! Will you be attending the 2018 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic? Leave a comment and tell us what you think of these new menu items! 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 Addition to the 2018 Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic 2018 WDW Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Dates Announced! Dates and Details for the 2018 Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic View the full article

With Christmas just around the corner (well, in terms of Walt Disney World, anyway), we’ll be ringing in holiday cheer in the parks before you know it! The 2018 Holiday merchandise is starting to hit the shelves in Disney Parks so you can remember your summer vacation in Disney World as you’re decking the halls this December. And while we love many of the new designs, there’s one that we think might cause a little stir… ;-D Here’s a peek at some of the festive decorations and home decor we’ve found already! Good Tidings Ornament The Good Tidings ornament shows the changing tide from the mod Holiday merchandise of the past couple of years back to a classic Victorian Christmas feel. We love the lettering on this, and the colors really are a gorgeous contrast. Good Tidings Ornament With this tree skirt, Mickey as Santa Claus is joined by Minnie as a festive herd of reindeer pull their sleigh through a winter wonderland. Good Tidings Tree Skirt The couple can also be spotted… well, coupling, I guess, in the Holiday Cheer line. OK, is it just me, or is this a little weird? Have we seen Mickey and Minnie making out in merchandise before?! Holiday Cheer Pillow The same image of Minnie and Mickey kissing beneath a snowy sky at near what appears to be Cinderella Castle is featured on this throw as well. Holiday Cheer Throw Holiday Cheer Throw Sense a theme this year? Holiday Cheer Stocking I really do like these flameless, light-up candles which are safe to place anywhere. They come in a Mickey-and-Minnie pairing that look great together or alone. Mickey and Minnie Flameless Candles The trio of musical it’s a small world toy soldiers are a charming mantle piece for the holidays, too! Just wind them up and they really play! it’s a small world Toy Soldiers So – ready or not! — it’s time to start thinking about spreading (or picking up!) some Holiday Cheer… Holiday Cheer Throw … the next time you’re in Disney World! 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. Pre-order The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2018 and get the 2017 edition as a free, instant download! 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 Pre-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! Will you be picking up some Disney holiday merchandise this year? 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: DFB Video: Six Surprising Disney Trends in 2018 Sneak Peek: 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Merchandise The 2018 Holiday Season at Disney World Includes NEW Experiences and Returning Favorites View the full article

The Edison‘s Burger of the Month is all new — and this time it’s inspired by the tastes of summer! The Edison The Burger of the Month series is a three-month-old promo at this hoppin’ Disney Springs location, and we’re loving all of the creative options they’re coming up with! June saw the vegan Electric Garden Burger as the Burger of the Month, but July’s burger… let’s just say it’s all about the meat. Red, White, and BBQ Burger ©The Edison The Red, White, and BBQ Burger is a burger cooked to order and topped with short rib, brisket, and BBQ pulled pork. For balance, there are some fried onions and cole slaw on there — plus some red bliss potato salad on the side. Yup, it’s protein overload, but it sounds so. good. Get yours only during the month of July — and be sure to grab a napkin (or five!). Want to stay on top of all the latest Disney food happenings? Sign up for the DFB Newsletter, and don’t miss a thing! What’s your favorite way to enjoy a burger? Let us know in the comments below! 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: Burger of the Month at The Edison in Disney World: the Electric Garden Burger! Burger of The Month Comes to The Edison at Disney World! Disney Springs News! Details About The Edison and the Opening of Vivoli Gelateria View the full article

In this weekend edition of Disney Doodles, artist Evan Peltier imagines what Dr. Facilier from “The Princes and the Frog” would do if he had the chance to visit Magic Kingdom Park. In the film “The Princes and the Frog,” Dr. Facilier, who dabbles in Voodoo, sets out to rule New Orleans by tricking Lawrence into a deal that benefits him more than Lawrence. To seal their deal, Dr. Facilier sings “Friends on the Other Side” – so it’s only natural (or would that supernatural?) that he’d seek out the spookiest place at Magic Kingdom Park – the Haunted Mansion. Here, Evan depicts Dr. Facilier checking with new “friends on the other side” inside Madame Leota’s Seance Room. View the full article

This month’s walk in the park takes us to winding waterways of Grizzly River Run at Disney California Adventure park. You may have seen the post earlier this week about attractions and experiences to enjoy during the summer months; Grizzly River Run is certainly no exception! I enjoy the gentle mists, refreshing rapids and skyscraping geysers at this rustic attraction. The storyline, grounded in messages of ecological mindfulness, is powerful if you take the time to soak it in. But rather than gush about Grizzly River Run, let’s look at pictures from recent walks in the park. From new and classic attractions, to fireworks, food and entertainment, there’s no shortage of ways to create memories at Disneyland Resort. But as you go about planning your next epic Disney day, consider carving out a little time to embrace the landscape and be refreshed at Grizzly River Run. View the full article

It’s time to think about planning for Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival, and if you’re like a lot of Walt Disney World guests, you’re trying to decide if you want to brave the crowds in order to graze the grub. We get it: Food and Wine isn’t for everyone. Here is some food for thought about Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival to help you decide if it’s right for you! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine 1. Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival draws big crowds. If you love swimming upstream (both ways) in a sea of human beings, we have good news! Food and Wine draws huge crowds to Epcot’s World Showcase (in particular) and the rest of the park. This can create an energetic and festive atmosphere that’s tailor made for those who thrive on being around other like-minded foodies and celebrants. Prepare to line up for fun! But if you’re like some of us and the idea of being elbow-to-elbow with every Tom, , and Harry in Epcot makes your stomach turn, Food and Wine might seem, let’s say, uncomfortable. And the truth is, even the quiet times at Food and Wine are busier than the quiet times just about any other season of the year (save for the holidays). Epcot Food and Wine draws the crowds. But if you’re jonesing to try Food and Wine despite your crowd aversion, we’ve got a couple of tips for ya. First, avoid the weekends. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday are especially busy at Food and Wine, with locals and visitors mingling at the food booths and jockeying for position all over the park. You also want to try to hit the food booths as soon as they open at 11AM. This way you can beat the crowds to your favorite booths. And that brings us to tip #3: plan ahead. Know which booths you want to visit, which foods you want to eat, and where to find them. This way you can avoid any excessive wandering and keep your Food and Wine visit efficient (and your contact with the crowds minimal!). Check out our pages with Menus and Reviews — and Photos of all the food — as we update them! 2. There are loads of demonstrations and experiences to add to your Food and Wine visit! Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival isn’t just about the food and wine booths. There are tons of extra experiences to enjoy — and some are even free! Low cost and free seminars and demonstrations include such fun opportunities as the Mix It! Make It! Celebrate It! Hands-On Workshops where guests can roll up their sleeves and learn from a professional chef! We checked it out, and it was loads of fun! Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Perfectly Paired Speakers Seminars and experiences that have been included with park admission in the past include The Chocolate Experience: From Bean to Bar; Back to Basics Seminars; Book Signings; Meet and Greets with celebrity chefs; Bottle Signings; Seasons of Vine wine making documentary; and the Marketplace Discovery Passport, in which you can check off all the food and drink you’ve enjoyed! 2017’s Passport In addition to the low cost and no cost options, Food and Wine offers several add-on seminars and demonstrations that can seriously amp up your overall experience of the Festival. Beverage seminars cover everything from craft beers to fine wines, while cheese seminars tantalize the taste buds. What’s Cooking With… is a demo and conversation with a celebrity chef. Place Setting for Beer Demonstration So whether you’re totally into the food booths and want to learn more about what goes into the eats or you’re not into the food booths but like to learn a new thing or two, there’s something for everyone! Check out the DFB Guide to the 2018 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival for more on how to book these fun experiences! 3. Food and Wine celebrates some spectacular food and wine! This one seems like a no-brainer. Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival is a celebration of food and wine (really beverages) from around the world — which can be exciting for guests who want to try some fantastic eats and drinks! Adventurous eaters and non-adventurous alike can find something interesting and expertly crafted. Paella from Spain’s 2017 booth We give you the low-down on all the food booths, including menus and pics as soon as they’re released! That said, not every dish or glass served up at Food and Wine will excite every guest, so it’s key to read reviews and menus before you head to the World Showcase. That’s why we hit the booths hard on day one to make sure we can give you informed reviews. Loaded Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Nueske’s® Pepper Bacon is a yes! But even with countless reviews, it’s important to keep in mind that food and wine can be totally subjective; what’s appealing to one guest might repulse another. So unless you’re one of the lucky few with an unlimited food budget (ahem, can we travel with you or no?), we recommend being cautiously adventurous. Sometimes foods that we thought would be a little dicey have turned out to be some of our favorites (and vice versa…). So we say: if it sounds good, try it! If you’re not really sure, read the DFB review to see if it sounds good! If it sounds terrible, we’ll leave it up to you! Try the Zesty Cheeseburger and Cheddar Cheese Macaroni Handwich! 4. Food and Wine can be expensive. This might be the biggest factor in your decision whether or not to attend Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival — and we understand. With dishes coming in anywhere from $3 to $8 (and drinks sometimes chiming in for even more!), sampling a ton of stuff can break the bank. One of each! But with a little advance planning and preparation, you can still make the most of your visit and try everything on your wish list! For starters, if you’re on the Disney Dining Plan, know that you can apply snack credits (or a quick service meal credit for three snack credits) at the food booths. You can also use your Target RedCard to buy Disney gift cards at Target for 5% off — thus saving 5% on everything you buy with them at the Festival! The DFB Guide to the 2018 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival has lots more tips to save you money on your visit! Maple Popcorn Shake Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival is a really fun way to experience the worlds of food and drink, including some unique eats and learning opportunities. Even those who think it might not be their cup of tea can find ways to enjoy the Festival — whether it’s by using our tips for saving time and money and avoiding the crowds or by taking advantage of some awesome demonstrations and seminars, Food and Wine is a big festival with the benefit of diverse offerings and fun for everyone! Learn more about Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival with our Festival 101! Ready to Plan for Your 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Trip? Pre-Order the DFB Guide to the 2018 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book today, and get the 2017 edition free as an immediate download! Two guides for the price of one! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Pre-Order your 2018 edition today and get the 2017 edition for FREE! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% off the cover price! Will you be joining the fun at Epcot’s International Food and Wine Festival this year? Tell us about your favorite part of the festival in the comments below! 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: 4 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Budget Tips You Need to Know BEFORE The Festival! 6 Must-Do Epcot Food and Wine Festival Travel Hacks! 2018 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Tips: How Many Days Should I Plan to Attend? 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The 11th annual Tour de Turtles at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is nearly upon us! This year’s event, which will take place at the resort on July 28, will again team up our Disney’s Animals, Science & Environment Team with the Sea Turtle Conservancy to celebrate two loggerheads’ great migration and track their journey from nesting on the beach to their foraging grounds. As part of Disney’s overall commitment to sea turtle conservation, the team regularly monitors sea turtle nesting activity on several miles of beach near Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, which happens to be one of the most active sea turtle nesting areas in Florida. Today we’re happy to share that this year’s Tour de Turtles will take on a Toy Story Land theme. Just as guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios are invited to “play big” in Andy’s backyard, conservation efforts at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort encourage guests to care for those animals – big and small – who live in their own backyards. This year, the Disney Parks Blog is sponsoring the event and we want all of our readers to have the chance to vote for a “Toy Story”-inspired name for the two turtles who will be released. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog in the coming weeks for more information about the Tour de Turtles event, the winning names, and a live stream of the turtle release! View the full article

For its second year, Le Rendez-vous Gourmand is coming back to Disneyland Paris! This Food and Wine Festival for Disneyland Paris made its debut in 2017. And the 2018 dates have now been revealed! ©Disneyland Paris From July 27 – September 30, 2018, Walt Disney Studios Park will host the event, which has been expanded from its just-over-two-week run in its debut year. New this year, the Festival will also celebrate the cuisine of Belgium, Italy, and Spain in addition to the best in food and beverage from France at the event’s various Chalets (similar to the Food and Wine Festival’s Food Booths). Traditional French cuisine will include Foie Gras from the South West Region and crêpes of Bretagnes. Belgium will be represented with traditional regional Fries, while Spain will be represented with Paella. And for Italian cuisine? Look for Tiramisu, among other items. You can see the menus for the 2017 event here. Visit disneylandparis.com for more information… and Bon Appétit! Want to stay informed of ALL the Disney News?? Sign Up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter and don’t miss a thing! Click HERE to subscribe! Would you like to attend Le Rendez-vouz Gourmand? 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: Le Rendez-vous Gourmand Food and Wine Festival Debuts at Disneyland Paris News: Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival Returning to Disneyland Resort in 2017! Epcot Food and Wine Festival Events UPDATE! What’s Back and What’s NOT RETURNING! View the full article

Hooray for HOLLYWOOD… Hollywood Studios, that is! Welcome to the Crossroads! We couldn’t resist taking another ride on Slinky Dog Dash at the brand new Toy Story Land, so we’re paying a visit to the park and the nearby Art of Animation and Pop Century Resorts to see WHAT’S NEW!! Woody says, “Howdy!” at Toy Story Land! Disney’s Hollywood Studios Disney’s Hollywood Studios Menus & Eats The current cocktails at the Pop Up Bar on Sunset Boulevard are Pink Paradise and the Blood Orange Margarita. Sunshine Day Cafe Pop Up Bar Remember, that price reflects the souvenir glow cube that typically accompanies the Pop Up Bar cocktails, but the glow cubes don’t come with the wine. Still… it’s nice to know it’s there for ya, isn’t it ? Sunshine Day Cafe Pop Up Bar An Incredible Red Velvet Cupcake with cream cheese buttercream frosting can be found at Counter Service locations around the park. Rosie’s All-American Cafe Incredibles Cupcake It joins the Toy Story Land Opening Celebration Cupcake which is also available at several locations, like Rosie’s All-American Cafe and Catalina Eddie’s at Sunset Ranch Market. Fairfax Fare Toy Story Land Cupcake Catalina Eddie’s Toy Story Land Cupcake Check out the Joffrey’s Coffee Kiosks for a playful beverage that will completely fit in with your visit to Toy Story Land! Joffrey’s in Pixar Place The Round ‘Em Up Latte is made with cookie butter and dulce de leche, and is topped with whipped cream, sprinkles, and ANIMAL CRACKERS! Joffrey’s in Pixar Place Here’s one more look at that Toy Story Land Cupcake before we head on over to… Toy Story Land Cupcake at Trolley Car Cafe … Grand Avenue, where there’s just one small change to note at BaseLine Tap House. BaseLine Tap House The Rib-Eye Steak Puff is gone from the menu. BaseLine Tap House Menu But as long as the Bloody Orange Hard Cider is still there, then so am I! Space Ace Bloody Orange Hard Cider Find Jack and Coke, if you prefer, over at Dockside Diner. Dockside Diner Jack and Coke Disney’s Hollywood Studios Merchandise After you’re done dropping by the Tower of Terror, you’ll notice some new items in the attraction’s merchandise shop. Tower of Terror Merchandise Reflective Hat at Tower of Terror Blu pepper blouses are currently seen in the shop. Tower of Terror Shop Merchandise Tower of Terror Shop Merchandise Tower of Terror Shop Merchandise And the new Tinseltown Trinket is carrying fun Monsters, Inc. jewelry sets featuring Mike and Sulley! Tinseltown Trinkets Monsters Jewelry Tinseltown Trinkets Monsters Jewelry You’ll want to keep an EYE out for it… Tinseltown Trinkets Monsters Jewelry As always, terrific new apparel continues to fill the Park merchandise locations, bedecked with everything from sparkling Tea Cups and Mickey Pretzels… Tea Cups Shirt Mickey Pretzel Shirt … to favorite characters! Sebastian Shirt Power Couple Tees Hei Hei Shirt Parks Essentials Tee The Epic Experience Tee lists your Top Ten Disney Parks Essentials, including “Eat Something Shaped Like Mickey”! What’s YOUR pick? Disney Parks Essentials Tee Here’s a couple featuring a favorite COUPLE… there’s a new Lady and the Tramp Dooney & Bourke. Lady and the Tramp Bag And here’s the classic Spaghetti scene! Lady and the Tramp Bag It’s Christmas in July in the Parks, as we’re starting to get glimpses of the 2018 Holiday Merchandise which you can find at It’s a Wonderful Shoppe in the Studios! Holiday Merch We’ll be taking a closer look at the holiday items in an upcoming post. But in the meantime… Holiday Merch Light-Up Candles Small World Musical Nutcrackers Disney’s Hollywood Studios Construction Now, just because Toy Story Land is now open… TOY STORY LAND!! Slinky Dog Dash Raspberry Lunch Box Tart and Alien Swirling Saucers … doesn’t mean that the construction has slowed down very much in Hollywood Studios! Pixar Place Closures Though Pixar Place (which used to be the street leading guests to the former entrance for Toy Story Mania) was being used as an overflow area during the very busy opening week of the new Land, the entire street is now closed. Hey Howdy Hey Takeaway, which was located in this area, has closed as well. Pixar Place Closures But the bigger construction story is obviously Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, which is slated to open in late fall 2019. And guests visiting Toy Story Land can get a pretty great view of it at the moment! Galaxy’s Edge construction from Toy Story Land Work, of course, continues on the Skyliner Gondola, too, as Hollywood Studios will ultimately be one of the system’s destinations. Studios Skyline Construction Studios Skyline Construction Disney’s Hollywood Studios Moment of Zen We don’t know how many “moments of Zen” were happening during a power outage at the park on July 12th, which took down attractions and air conditioning throughout the park for a stretch of time. But here are a few moments for you from our time here a bit earlier in the week! Slinky Dog Dash The waits are getting shorter for Slinky Dog Dash… at least, a little . Slinky Dog Dash Line If you spot a PhotoPass Photograher by the Tower of Terror, you may also spots these new suitcases which may be used as props in your photo! Photopass set up at Tower of Terror Props! Let the celebration of all the new and still-to-come fun at this park continue! Toy Story Balloons Art of Animation Resort Welcome to the Art of Animation Resort! Art of Animation Big Blue Pool Time for a swim! If you’re chillin’ at the Big Blue Pool, remember to check out some new sips at The Drop Off Pool Bar. Drop Off Bar Menu Featured Cocktails include the Big Blue Ocean (and the Captain’s Pineapple remains the spot’s sippable, spiked Dole Whip). Featured Cocktails Stop by the Ink & Paint Shop near the check-in area. Checking in? That’s where — for a limited time — you can purchase Class of 2018 sketches for your proud grad! Personalized Sketches! Large Authentic German Style Hand-Twisted Pretzels are currently being served at Landscape of Flavors. Authentic German Style Hand Twisted Pretzel Six bucks seems kind of steep, but it’s a good value for a DDP snack credit! Authentic German Style Hand Twisted Pretzel And, of course, some refurbishment is taking place as well at Building 5. Building 5’s Partial Refurb Building 5 Refurb So you can spend some extra time outside near the Cozy Cone Motel! Get cozy at the Cone! Skyliner construction continues here, too! Skyliner construction on Hourglass Lake Skyliner construction on Hourglass Lake Pop Century Resort Hey Hey from Pop Century! Pop Century Hippy Dippy Pool Petals Pool Bar has a bit of a smaller food selection now, but is still serving up eats like Chicken Wings and Boneless Chicken Bites (NUGGS!). Petals Menu Petals Food The fun continues around the Resort, so be sure to check your Recreation Schedule. Recreation at Pop! Recreation at Pop! Inside at Everything Pop! Food Court, a new Banana Split Cupcake is up for grabs! Pop Banana Split Cupcake And though we’re not sure how much longer you’ll see it, here’s a look at this year’s 4th of July Cupcake at Pop. Firecracker Cupcake And, just for funzies, here’s a peek at a new Pascal cap. Pascal Hat He’s a little grumpy that we have to say good-bye… but with that, we’re signing off from Hollywood Studios, Art of Animation, and Pop Century Resort! Want to stay informed of ALL the Disney News?? Sign Up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter and don’t miss a thing! Click HERE to subscribe! Check out some more BRAND NEW STUFF we’re loving lately!! Have you spotted anything new around the World recently? 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: What’s New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Art of Animation, and Pop Century: May 15, 2018 What’s New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Coronado Springs Resort: May 26, 2018 What’s New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney World Resorts: February 17, 2018 View the full article