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This summer, guests are now enjoying the all-new Adventures by Disney Iceland vacation for the first time. Adventurers are enjoying the unparalleled natural beauty of this island nation as they explore its dramatic landscapes and coastline that feature majestic waterfalls, lunar-like valleys, mountainous glaciers and stunning volcanoes. Our Adventure Guides are sharing some of their favorite photos from the adventure thus far. These pics are sure to inspire you to book a future Adventures by Disney vacation to Iceland! First up, what trip to Iceland would be complete with a visit to the legendary Blue Lagoon? Here guests can achieve spiritual serenity as while soothing their mind, body and soul in this blissful oasis. The Blue Lagoon, along with many other breathtaking sights, are located near the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik. A hub of art and culture, Reykjavik is home to unique cuisine and fascinating architecture, such as the iconic, and hard to pronounce, Hallgrímskirkja, the largest church in Iceland. Animal lovers on our first departures were excited to saddle up and ride through the scenic Southwest Coast on an Icelandic Horse, just like the Vikings who introduced this unique breed to Iceland. Iceland is known for its abundance of awe-inspiring waterfalls, and with Adventures by Disney you can see some of the grandest the country has to offer. At Seljalandsfoss guests hiked behind the falls for a truly special view – the backside of water! After departing Reykjavik, adventurers headed East for a hike on Skaftafell Glacier. Here they explored the dramatic terrain of ice formations, glacier-carved landscapes and vast panoramic views of the surrounding mountains (and got a little wacky with their photo ops). Next up, a boat ride amongst the massive icebergs broken off from Vatnajökull, Europe’s largest glacier, now adrift on the iconic Jökulsárlόn Glacier Lagoon. A snowball fight with these ice chunks would surely be epic, if they weren’t too massive to lift! As amazing as all these destinations look, we’ve only made it to Day 3 of this unforgettable vacation! I’ll be back with more photos from the Adventures by Disney Iceland vacation soon. Keep your eyes on the Disney Parks Blog to follow along! View the full article

Each night at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you can embrace the magic of nature during a beautiful nighttime experience called “Rivers of Light.” With captivating special effects, music, and animal folklore, this incredible show celebrates the beauty of all living things. And now, you can celebrate the beauty of sweet desserts with the new Rivers of Light Dessert Party. With this new dining experience, you can add a sweet ending to your day by enjoying a beautiful buffet of Disney’s Animal Kingdom-themed desserts, snacks, and drinks before enjoying VIP views of “Rivers of Light.” You’ll start by checking in 60 minutes prior to the main show (8:15 p.m. for a 9:15 p.m. show) at the Rivers of Light Asia Viewing Area Terrace located across from Expedition Everest. Here you’ll enjoy house-made desserts, snacks, specialty alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, iced tea, lemonade, and water. When the show is about to start, head down to the VIP Seating Area, where you’ll enjoy exceptional views of Rivers of Light. This exciting new dining experience will take place on select nights starting on Monday, August 6, 2018. Starting today you can make reservations by visiting the Walt Disney World Website or call 407 WDW-DINE (407 939-3463). Price is $79 for adults and $47 for children (tax inclusive) and must be paid for in full at the time of booking. Guests must be at least 21 years of age or older and able to present a valid form of ID to consume alcoholic beverages. View the full article

Each time my family and I visit Epcot, The Seas With Nemo & Friends Pavilion is a must-stop location for us. We love getting an “under-the-sea” view of the pavilion’s saltwater aquarium, watching our son play in Bruce’s Shark World play area, and Turtle Talk With Crush is so much fun! How well do you know this pavilion and its attractions? Put your knowledge to the test below! View the full article

Guests have been able to book Dessert Parties to enjoy a selection of desserts paired with guaranteed seating for a nighttime spectacular at three out of the four Disney World theme parks for some time now. Nighttime Spectacular Epcot hosts the Frozen Ever After Dessert Party, Hollywood Studios has the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party, and Magic Kingdom offers three different Dessert Parties for Happily Ever After. But Animal Kingdom has never hosted one… until now. The Rivers of Light Dessert Party will kick off soon in Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Rivers of Light Spectacular Rivers of Light Guests will have exclusive access to the Rivers of Light Viewing Area terrace and enjoy a buffet of themed desserts and snacks. Drink selections will include non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages (for of-age guests). Guests will then be escorted to a reserved viewing area for Rivers of Light prior to the show. Rivers of Light Projections The price is $79 for adults and $47 for children ages 3 to 9 (tax included). As with all Dessert Parties, separate admission to the park is required and not included. Booking time will change per night based on the showtime for that evening. Interested guests will soon be able to book online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE for dates starting August 11, 2018, with Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays currently appearing as the available nights moving forward. Want to stay informed of ALL the Disney News?? Sign Up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter and don’t miss a thing! Click HERE to subscribe! Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Details! 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. Would you like to attend the Rivers of Light Dessert Party? 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: Rumor: Rivers of Light Dining Packages Possibly Coming to Animal Kingdom’s Tusker House News: Animal Kingdom Rivers of Light Dining Packages Now Available for Booking DFB Video: How to Score a Seat at the NEW “Rivers of Light” Show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! View the full article

At Walt Disney World, several people — many of whom had pre-existing conditions — reported medical issues after riding attractions, according to a state report released this week. The most serious case was a 71-year-old man on vacation who suffered a heart attack in a wave pool and died at Disney’s... View the full article

You can’t miss Pizzafari when you’re trekking through Discovery Island in Animal Kingdom. This brightly colored restaurant serves up Counter Service pizza, and it’s in what’s become a very popular area in the park, as it’s by the pathway that ends up bringing guests into Pandora — The World of AVATAR. Pizzafari Sign And beginning July 31st, a new service style will be coming to Pizzafari. While it will remain a Counter Service restaurant during the day, the location’s serving style will change from 5:00 – 8:00 pm daily offering the new Pizzafari Family Style Dining experience! Wall Murals inside Pizzfari Here’s how it will work: guests will check in at the podium and place their drink orders. Then they will be seated in one of two dining rooms specifically designated for the new dining experience. Then, a selection of family-style plates will be delivered to the table! The meal will include two appetizers (a Caprese and a Caesar Salad), three entrees (pasta, chicken, and pizza), and a dessert. We’ll be curious to find out whether the pizza will be similar to typical Counter Service style or different! Pizzafari Pizza The cost for Pizzafari Family-Style Dining will be $19.99 for guests ages 10 and older, and $11.99 for guests ages 3-9 (including tax and non-alcoholic beverages). The meal will count as 1 Quick Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan. Beer and wine will be available for purchase separately. Advance Dining Reservations will be available for booking starting July 17th online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE. Want to stay informed of ALL the Disney News?? Sign Up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter and don’t miss a thing! Click HERE to subscribe! Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Details! 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. Will you be trying Pizzafari Family-Style Dining? 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: Pizzafari at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Discontinues Breakfast Review: Meat Lovers Pizza at Animal Kingdom’s Pizzafari Review: Breadsticks and Salad at Animal Kingdom’s Pizzafari View the full article

Are you ready to go on a tasty adventure through Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park? I’ve got a jungle full of new eats and treats and I can’t wait to tell you all about them. First up, we’re stopping at Discovery Island to enjoy some cheesy Italian goodness! Pizzafari is one of the most popular quick-service restaurants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, serving up freshly baked pizzas and delicious Italian-inspired eats. But there’s even more exciting offerings coming this summer! Starting July 31, guests will be able to choose between a classic quick-service experience or making a reservation for the brand-new Pizzafari Family-Style Dining Experience. So round up the clan and get ready for an Italian feast set in one of the restaurant’s wildly vibrant dining rooms! When you arrive, stop by the podium to check in. After placing your drink orders, you’ll be seated in one of two dining rooms that have been designated for this new experience. Once seated, you can enjoy a selection of family-style plates delivered right to your table: two appetizers (Caprese Salad and Caesar Salad), as well as three entrees, including pasta, chicken, and pizza dishes, and of course you’ll end your meal with a sweet dessert! Pizzafari Family-Style Dining will be offered between 5pm and 8pm daily starting July 31. Cost is $19.99 for guests ages 10 and older and $11.99 for guests ages 3-9, including tax and non-alcoholic beverages. Beer and wine will also be available for separate purchase. This experience also counts as 1 QSR Redemption on the Disney Dining Plan. Reservations will be available online at DisneyWorld.com/Dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463) starting Tuesday, July 17. In addition to this new option, you may have noticed that Pizzafari has changed up their quick-service menu, and those classic round pizzas are back from extinction! Enjoy a freshly baked Cheese, Pepperoni, Vegetable, or Sausage & Pepperoni Pizza. And, of course, you can still enjoy the Shrimp Flatbread with roasted shrimp, tomato, red pepper, Alfredo sauce and pesto and topped with greens. Each of these dishes can be paired with a small Caesar Salad too! Or if you’re craving a little protein, try the Caesar Salad with Chicken. A basket of fresh-baked Garlic Knots topped with cheese and served with marinara sauce is also on the menu as well as a decadent Cannoli Cake – a slice of chocolate cake with chocolate chip cannoli filling and topped with chocolate ganache and a mini cannoli filled with sweet ricotta cheese and chocolate chips. Right next door at Tiffins Restaurant, you’ll be excited to find a new lunch menu! This new two-course lunch menu includes your choice of appetizer and entrée or entrée and dessert. Appetizer selections include Apple Walnut Salad or Spiced Chickpea Falafel, while the main course selections include Wagyu Beef Tagine, Paella, and Roasted Chicken Breast. And for dessert, you’ll get a dessert duo with South American Chocolate Ganache and Guava Mousse. This lunch menu is $35 per person (plus tax and gratuities) and counts as 2 TSR meals on the Disney Dining Plan and is served from 11am to 3:30pm daily. Reservations can be made at DisneyWorld.com/Dine or by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463). And of course, walk-ups are always welcome! Next up, there’s a few new sweets that you just can’t miss! Also found on Discovery Island, the first is a Banana Maple Cake offered at Flame Tree Barbecue. This vanilla chiffon cake with banana maple mousse is topped with a white chocolate glaze and crunchy meringue. The second dessert will have you “quacking” for more! Inspired by everyone’s favorite duck – Donald’s Dino-Bash! Cupcake can be found at Dino Diner in DinoLand U.S.A. This ADORABLE vanilla cupcake is filled with lemon-flavored white chocolate mousse and topped with buttercream, crispy pearls, and a red fondant bow! You’ll definitely want to get a cute pic with this one, especially with all of the colorful backdrops you can find throughout the area. On the savory side, Dino Diner has also added an Italian Sausage Hoagie to the menu with broiled Italian sausage, sautéed onion, and sautéed peppers and served with potato chips. And over at Restaurantosaurus you’ll find a new Grilled Chicken Salad with Summer Berries, Breaded Shrimp served with French Fries, and Shrimp & Chicken served with French Fries. While you’re on safari in Africa, stop by Harambe Market to fuel up and recharge with a few tasty new dishes such as the Pork Sausage with curried onion relish served on naan bread with black-eyed pea salad. There’s also the Roasted Vegetables with cauliflower, sweet potato, and chickpeas served over steamed rice with yogurt raita. And for dessert, try the Safari Cake! Inspired by the Okapi, (which can be found on Kilamanjaro Safaris), this coconut cake is made with pineapple-coconut mousse and coated in chocolate. Satu’li Canteen in Pandora – The World of Avatar recently added new Build-Your-Own-Bowl options. A Combination Bowl with grilled beef and chicken join the protein menu with two new base selections: a Rice and Beans base and a Hearty Salad base. Speaking of canteens, there’s also a new Animal Kingdom Canteen that’s perfect for staying hydrated and refreshed throughout the day! You can find it at Mahindi Popcorn, The Feeding Ground, or at most Ice Cream Carts throughout the park. And finally, travel up, up and away with this “Up!”-Inspired Cake Push Pop with layers of earth chocolate cake, mountains and skies of green and blue buttercream, and balloons of crispy white chocolate. Found at the Warung Outpost, you can grab a cake pop before heading over to see “UP! A Great Big Bird Adventure” in Asia, where you’ll discover some of the world’s most exotic birds during an all-new starring those fun-loving pals from Disney•Pixar’s “Up!” And with that, our tasty trek through Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park has come to an end … or has it? I might just have one more bigger, sweeter announcement to share, so stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog this week to learn more about what’s coming to Animal Kingdom Food & Beverage this summer! View the full article

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