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The Disney World Star Wars Hotel is coming your way with the opening of Galaxy’s Edge in Disney World’s Hollywood Studios! Today we have a few more peeks behind the curtain with newly released details and concept art photos! Disney’s buzzword with this hotel is “immersive.” They’re pushing the concept that once you check into the Star Wars Hotel, you’d basically better be a HUGE Star Wars fan, because you won’t be in Kansas anymore (or, more accurately, in Orlando anymore). Once entering, guests “board a starship alive with characters and stories that unfold all around them.” Oh, and no sunlight for you, suckas — you’re looking exclusively at space through every window. When it comes to location, the hotel will “be seamlessly connected” to Galaxy’s Edge — which makes me think there will be an entrance to the park directly from the hotel (a la California Adventure from the Grand Californian in Disneyland). That hasn’t been announced, but it would be cool. Oh, and if you’re into Star Wars cosplay, this place is for you. Disney’s already inviting you to dress the part while staying at the Star Wars Hotel! Speaking of staying there — here’s a brand new piece of concept art showing one of the Star Wars hotel rooms! Disney World Star Wars hotel Room Bunks, bedrolls, a giant window showing a view of various planets, moons, asteroids, and — we hope — the DEATH STAR?!??! That would be cool, right? Instead of fire drills, there are Darth Drills? We’ll have to wait and see! See more details and concept art for the Disney World Star Wars Hotel here and here! Are you ready to stay at the Disney World Star Wars Hotel?? Let us know 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: News! Star Wars Lands — and Star Wars Cantinas — Announced for Disneyland and Disney World! STAR WARS HOTEL Coming to DISNEY WORLD! NEWS!! Star Wars Hotel, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Pixar Pier Details View the full article

A federal judge in Los Angeles has dealt a serious setback to Walt Disney Co. in the studio’s ongoing legal battle to stop kiosk movie-rental company Redbox from selling digital download codes for its films. U.S. District Court Judge Dean Pregerson on Tuesday denied Disney’s request for a preliminary... View the full article

Walt Disney World has announced the selected name and revealed the gender of the hippopotamus born at the theme park in January. It’s a boy. And he will be called Augustus. The calf is the first hippo born at Animal Kingdom in more than 13 years, Disney says. The gender/name reveal happened during... View the full article

When Pixar Pier opens June 23 at Disney California Adventure park, guests will discover a new hot spot at the Lamplight Lounge. This seaside lounge will be an elegant yet fun gathering place for the whole family, located at the entrance of Pixar Pier. And I am excited to answer the question on everyone’s mind: It will serve the guest-favorite Lobster Nachos! Lamplight Lounge will serve California casual gastro-pub cuisine that is playfully presented along with unique signature cocktails. This seaside lounge contains a full bar with picturesque waterfront views from both upstairs and downstairs. At night, outdoor seating provides views of the illuminated Pixar Pier and “World of Color.” Renovated from an old warehouse factory, the location has kept many features of the original two-story building. The steel structural elements as well as concrete and brick walls were exposed and repaired to tell the story of its past. The original wood boards from the factory were refinished and given new life as ceiling panels and floors. The furniture style echoes a relaxed feel and the end result is an open, airy and bright place that is organic yet sophisticated. Lamplight Lounge celebrates the creativity, inspirations and personalities of the artists and storytellers who have brought Pixar stories to life. Guests will discover the artistic marks that the Pixar “regulars” have left throughout the lounge: concept art, a quick sketch on a napkin, knick-knacks and collectable toys of beloved Pixar characters will adorn the space. Come discover the treasured keepsakes and tastes of Lamplight Lounge when it opens along with Pixar Pier on June 23. Guests wishing to visit the Cove Bar one more time are welcome to stop by as it reopens briefly beginning March 16 before closing again at the end of May for its permanent transformation. View the full article

Just minutes ago, we shared an exciting update that our new show “UP! A Great Bird Adventure,” featuring Russell and Dug from Disney•Pixar’s “UP” will be debuting at Disney’s Animal Kingdom on April 22, 2018! Beginning just in time for the 20th anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, this new entertainment experience for the whole family offers guests the chance to see Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his furry friend Dug as they discover species of birds from around the world in their newest adventure in Anandapur village. There will be “UP” close encounters each day with amazing winged creatures! We’ll be sharing more details as we approach the show’s opening day on April 22 so keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for future updates. View the full article

Earlier this morning, Bob Chapek, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, shared exciting new looks at two different Toy Story Lands that are currently under construction at Disney Parks. Here in the U.S., Toy Story Land is set to open to guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on June 30, 2018. This land will bring with it all the fun, imagination and beloved characters from the “Toy Story” films. When it opens, guests visiting the land will “shrink” to the size of a toy and join in on the fun Woody, Jessie, Buzz, and Andy’s other favorite pals are having in Andy’s backyard. Here, guests can take a ride on Slinky Dog Dash, a roller coaster Andy has assembled from his Mega Coaster Play Kit and topped off with Rex and Jessie, while Slinky serves as the coaster vehicle. (See photo above for a new look at the track). Families will also be able to take a spin on Alien Swirling Saucers, a galactic play set that Andy won from Pizza Planet. Here, adorable little green aliens swirl about in their flying saucers with guests in tow in their rocket ship toys, while “The Claw” hangs overhead. Guests can also walk through a new carnival game box to experience Toy Story Mania!, which has been a guest-favorite attraction at the park since it opened in 2008. Now expanded with a third track, the popular attraction will put even more guests in the action taking aim at 3D objects – using everything from baseballs to cream pies – in a variety of whimsical, fast-paced games. Woody’s Lunch Box will serve up tasty meals and old-fashioned soda floats from a walk-up window setting. The entire land will serve as a visual celebration of toys, with Crayons, Cooties, Green Army Men, Rubik’s Cubes, Tinkertoys, and other familiar toys and game pieces incorporated into the land’s design. Bob also shared this amazing behind-the-scenes video that shows the progress that’s being made on Toy Story Lands at both Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Shanghai Disneyland. (Toy Story Land at Shanghai Disneyland will include three attractions – Rex’s Racer, Slinky Dog Spin and Woody’s Round-Up – and is on track to open on April 26, 2018). Take a peek at both in the video above. Gallery Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios view all Which attraction are you most looking forward to experiencing when Toy Story Land opens this summer at Disney’s Hollywood Studios – or will you make the trip to Shanghai Disneyland? Tell us in the “Comments” section below! View the full article

Earlier this month we shared a look inside the groundbreaking new hotel concept coming to the Walt Disney World Resort that will combine luxury with complete immersion into an authentic Star Wars story. Today, we’re thrilled to have more new visuals of this resort to share with you! The immerse experience offered at this hotel will stand out among all of our resorts around the globe. As you can see, families visiting this resort will board a starship alive with characters and stories that unfold all around them during their voyage through the galaxy – and every window has a view of space! The resort will also be seamlessly connected to the highly anticipated Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, allowing guests a complete Star Wars experience. Guests visiting the resort will be welcome to participate as a resident of the galaxy by dressing in Star Wars-inspired attire. For the latest updates on all Star Wars-inspired guest offerings at the Walt Disney World Resort, visit our dedicated Star Wars page. View the full article

Ever since a baby hippo was born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom last month – the first hippo to be born at the park in 13 years – Guests and Cast alike have been hungry for hippo news. Today, I’m thrilled to share that the hippo calf is a boy, and his name is Augustus! The little one, who’s now 168 pounds, has a playful spirit and can often be seen right next to his mom Tuma. See the video below for a grand reveal! Guests may see Tuma and her calf on Kilimanjaro Safaris and Wild Africa Trek. To learn more about hippos, visit DisneyAnimals.com. View the full article

The birds are chirping, the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing and my stomach is rumbling for this year’s International Flower & Garden Festival at Epcot! From February 28 to May 28, 2018, welcome the arrival of spring with brilliant topiaries, interactive play gardens, rocking entertainment, and of course, fresh flavors. This year’s Outdoor Kitchens feature creative cuisine and highlight fresh and vibrant ingredients. Here is your official foodie guide to all of the sips, dishes and desserts that you can find around the World Showcase! PINEAPPLE PROMENADE (Showcase Plaza): Food: Spicy Hot Dog with Pineapple Chutney and Plantain Chips Pineapple Soft-serve Beverage: Coastal Empire Beer Co. Coco Piña Gose, Savannah, GA Maui Brewing Co. Pineapple Mana Wheat, Kihei, HI SweetWater Brewing Company Goin’ Coastal IPA with Pineapple, Atlanta, GA Pineapple Beer Flight Playalinda Brewing Company Violet Lemonade Ale, Titusville, FL Florida Orange Groves Winery Sparkling Pineapple Wine, St. Petersburg, FL Pineapple Soft-serve with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade (non-alcoholic) Pineapple Soft-serve with Fanta (non-alcoholic) BAUERNMARKT: FARMER’S MARKET (Germany) Food: Potato Pancakes with House-made Apple Sauce Potato Pancake with Caramelized Ham, Onions and Herb Sour Cream Toasted Pretzel Bread topped with Black Forest Ham and Melted Gruyère Cheese Warm Cheese Strudel with Mixed Berries Beverage: Hugo- Charles De Fère “Organic” Brut with Elderflower and Mint Paulaner Original Munich Lager, Munich, Germany Ayinger Bräu Weisse Hefeweizen, Munich, Germany Köstritzer Schwarzbier Black Lager, Bad Köstritz, Germany Beer Flight THE SMOKEHOUSE: BARBECUE AND BREWS (The American Adventure): Food: Pulled Pig Slider with Coleslaw Beef Brisket Burnt Ends and Smoked Pork Belly Slider with Garlic Sausage, Chorizo, Cheddar Fondue and House-made Pickle Beef Brisket Burnt Ends Hash with White Cheddar Fondue and Pickled Jalapeños Warm Chocolate Cake with Bourbon-salted Caramel Sauce and Spiced Pecans Beverage: Zen of Zin Old Vine Zinfandel, California Central 28 Brewing Company Sunshine Greetings Orange Hibiscus Wheat Ale, DeBary, FL 3 Daughters Brewing Phantasmas Spicy Double IPA, St. Petersburg, FL Shipyard Maple Bacon Stout, Clearwater, FL Beer Flight Simply Frozen Lemonade with Firefly Blackberry Moonshine Simply Frozen Lemonade (non-alcoholic) FLORIDA FRESH (Between France and Morocco): Food: Carne Guisada with Black Bean Cake and Cilantro-lime Sour Cream Spicy Blackened Shrimp and Cheddar Cheese Grits with Brown Gravy and Local Sweet Corn Relish Key Lime Tart with Toasted Meringue Beverage: Florida Orange Groves Winery Key Lime Sparkling Wine, St Petersburg, FL Tampa Bay Brewing Company Quat Seasonal Fruit Ale, Tampa, FL Big Top Brewing Company Conch Republic Key Lime Wheat, Sarasota, FL First Magnitude Brewing Co. Monarch Milk Stout, Gainesville, FL Beer Flight Watermelon Cucumber Slushy with Tamiami Florida Gin Watermelon Cucumber Slushy (non-alcoholic) The Honey Bee-stro Hosted By National Honey BoardTM (Showcase Plaza): Food: Roasted Cauliflower with Buckwheat Honey Carrot Purée, Wild Rice Pilaf, Asparagus, Honey Blistered Grapes and Sunflower Brittle Honey Tandoori Chicken Flatbread with White Cheddar Cheese, Charred Vegetables, Clover Honey Sour Cream and Micro Watercress Local Wildflower Honey-Mascarpone Cheesecake with Orange Blossom Honey Ice Cream garnished with Fennel Pollen Meringue Kisses Beverage: Florida Orange Groves Winery Orange Blossom Honey Wine, St. Petersburg, FL Orange Blossom Brewing Co. Orange Blossom Pilsner, Orlando, FL Honey-Peach Cobbler Freeze with Blueberry Vodka Honey-Peach Cobbler Freeze (non-alcoholic) CIDER HOUSE (United Kingdom): Food: Pear Cider-brined Shredded Corned Beef with Braised Cabbage, Pears and Branston Dressing House-made Potato and Cheddar Cheese Biscuit with Smoked Salmon Tartare Freshly Baked Lemon Scone with Crème Fraîche and Mixed Berries Beverage: McKenzie’s Black Cherry Hard Cider, West Seneca, NY Florida Beer Company Caribé Blood Orange Tropical Hard Cider, Cape Canaveral, FL Ciderboys Grand Mimosa Apple Orange Hard Cider, Stevens Point, WI Cider Flight Martinelli’s Sparkling Cider, California (non-alcoholic) LA ISLA FRESCA (Showcase Plaza): Food: Jamaican-braised Beef with Pigeon Pea Rice and Micro Cilantro Sugar Cane Shrimp Skewer with Steamed Rice and Coconut-lime Sauce Caribbean Conch Salad with Mango, Papaya and Pickled Red Onions Tropical Mousse Cake: Layers of Passion Fruit Cake, Coconut Mousse and a Tropical Fruit Glaze with Fresh Pineapple Beverage: Golden Road Brewing Tart Mango Cart Wheat Ale, Los Angeles, CA Tropical Freeze with Cruzan Mango Rum Tropical Freeze (non-alcoholic) THE BERRY BASKET (Showcase Plaza): Food: Lamb Chop with Quinoa Salad and Blackberry Gastrique Field Greens with Fresh Strawberries, Crisp Quinoa, Strawberry Vinaigrette and Spiced Pecans Warm Wild Berry Buckle with Pepper Berry Gelato Beverage: JDub’s Brewing Company Blueberry IPA, Sarasota, FL Island Grove Blueberry Moscato, Hawthorne, FL Twinings® Green Tea Berry Mint Julep Twinings® Green Tea Berry Mint Julep (non-alcoholic) NORTHERN BLOOM (Canada): Food: Seared Scallops with French Green Beans, Butter Potatoes, Brown Butter Vinaigrette and Apple-wood Smoked Bacon Beef Tenderloin Tips, Mushroom Bordelaise Sauce, Whipped Potatoes with Garden Vegetables Griddled Maple Pound Cake with Warm Peach Compote and Sweet Corn Gelato Beverage: Maple Popcorn Shake with Crown Royal Maple Whisky Maple Popcorn Shake (non-alcoholic) Unibroue Maudite Amber Ale, Chambly, Québec Unibroue À Tout Le Monde Saison, Chambly, Québec Unibroue Éphémère White Ale, Chambly, Québec Beer Flight FLEUR DE LYS (France): Food: Tarte à la Tomate Provençale: Provencal Tomato Tart with Sautéed Onions, Fresh Thyme and Rosemary on a Flaky Pastry Crust Canard Confit Aux Gnocchi à la Parisienne: Braised Duck Confit with Parisian Gnocchi Macaron au Chocolat en Sucette: Large Chocolate Macaron Lollipop Beverage: La Vie en Rose Frozen Slush: Grey Goose Vodka Orange, St. Germain Liqueur, White and Red Cranberry Juice Kir Pomegranate: Sparkling Wine and Pama Pomegranate Liqueur Cabernet Sauvignon, Village de France Kronenbourg 1664 Blanc JARDIN DE FIESTAS (Mexico): Food: Pork Taco: Slow-braised Pork Taco served with Apple Relish, Goat Cheese, and Chile de Árbol Sauce Chilaquiles: Chilaquiles served with Ranchera Sauce, Chorizo, Mexican Cream, and Cotija Cheese Capirotada: Bread Pudding served with Rompope Beverage: Tiger Lily Sangria Rose Margarita Violet Cassis Punch Daisy Spicy Beer LOTUS HOUSE (China): Food: Spicy Meatballs with Crispy Tofu Fried Chicken Dumplings with Peanut Sauce Vegetable Spring Rolls Beverage: Oolong Peach Bubble Tea (non-alcoholic) BaiJoe Punch: Chinese Bai Jiu Spirit, Lychee, Coconut and Pineapple Juice Kung Fu Punch: Vodka, Triple Sec, Mango and Orange Juice Plum Wine Cooler Tsingtao Lager PRIMAVERA KITCHEN (Italy): Food: Frittata di Asparagi: Asparagus Frittata, Mixed Greens and Citrus Dressing Fritto Misto: Crispy Shrimps, Zucchini and Spicy Sauces Ravioli all’ Aragosta, Germogli di Piselli: Maine Lobster Ravioli, Veloute Sauce, Pea Sprouts, Pear Drop Tomatoes and Salmon Roe Panna Cotta al Melone: Cantaloupe Panna Cotta Beverage: Pinot Grigio Chianti Prosecco Corbinello Moscato Bellini: Sparkling Wine and Peach Purée Frozen Italian Margarita with Limoncello and Tequila Moretti Lager L’Autentica Moretti La Rossa TASTE OF MARRAKESH (Morocco): Food: Harissa Chicken Kebab with Dried Fruit Couscous Salad Fried Cauliflower with Capers, Garlic Parsley and Chili Ranch Sauce Walnut Honey Baklava Beverage: Desert Rose: Sparkling Wine topped with Pomegranate Liqueur White Sangria Casa Beer HANAMI (Japan): Food: Frushi: Fresh Pineapple, Strawberry and Melon rolled with Coconut Rice, Sprinkled with Toasted Coconut and Whipped Cream with Raspberry Sauce on the side Ginger Beef Yaki Udon: Thin-sliced Beef, Onions, and Noodles tossed on the grill with Soy and Ginger Teriyaki Salmon with Furikake Seasoned Brown Rice Beverage: Pineapple Momo Sake Cocktail Karatamba “Dry Wave” Sake Sapporo Draft Beer in a Kampai Cup JOFFREY’S COFFEE & TEA COMPANY®: Future World East – The Final Lap: Iced Tea topped with Frozen Passion Fruit with Vodka Canada – Orange Blossom Twist: Frozen Orange Pineapple topped with Vodka Showcase Plaza – Garden of Guava: Frozen Pink Guava topped with Rum or Vodka The American Adventure – Strawberry Piña Colada: Frozen Piña Colada and Strawberry with Rum View the full article

Recently, we let you know that Cove Bar’s beloved Mickey’s Fun Wheel cocktail is now available at Alfresco Tasting Terrace (FYI — Neverland Tea and Black Pearl are available now, too!) – and now we’re helping ourselves to some tasty little appetizers at this relaxing and beautiful lounge in Disney California Adventure Park. Lovely Signage at Alfresco Tasting Terrace Alfresco Tasting Terrace is located in DCA, above Wine Country Trattoria and overlooking Radiator Springs. We realize that’s a little bit of a contradiction in styles, but this is Disneyland, and somehow it works. As you might expect, the Mediterranean design of Wine Country is continued at Alfresco Tasting Terrace, with stucco walls, painted vines and grapes, and lots of wrought iron. Stairs to Alfresco Tasting Terrace The bar and lounge area upstairs transports guests to a winery in Napa Valley — so relaxation is part of the draw here. Seating is at small tables with wrought iron, padded chairs. Seating at Alfresco Tasting Terrace You’ll find a menu at each table, ready for perusal. Table Set Up The menu is classy with a pretty embossed leather cover. Classy Menu at Alfresco Tasting Terrace Inside guests find a small selection of appetizers. These are all Italian-inspired, including classics like Bruschetta and Chicken Caesar Piadina. Alfresco Tasting Terrace Menu Heather Sievers, our Disneyland correspondent (of @DiningInDisney fame!) chose three excellent options. The first is Sundried Tomato Flatbread. This crispy flatbread is covered in lots of vibrant sundried tomatoes, green olive tapenade, pesto, and mozzarella cheese. The colors are irresistible, and it’s delicious with tons of stringy melted cheese and zesty pesto. Sun-Dried Tomato Flatbread Next up is a DFB favorite: the Charcuterie and Cheese Board. This generous appetizer features prosciutto di parma, Spanish-style chorizo, gorgonzola blue cheese, chèvre, fontina, green olives, marinated mushrooms, walnuts, and dry-cured black beldi olives. Charcuterie Everything was flavorful, and the accompaniments worked well together, with some interesting additions to the board. Cheeses on the Charcuterie at Alfresco Tasting Terrace The last app Heather tried is about as classic as Italian food gets: Meatballs Marinara. Three meatballs are served in a small pan, which is used to broil that gooey cheese. Meatballs at Alfresco Tasting Terrace The meatballs are a good size and super delicious. Meatballs Inside the meatball is juicy and flecked with spices. Paired with the fresh-tasting marinara sauce, these were totally addicting. Meatball Cross-Section Alfresco Tasting Terrace is a wonderful getaway in Disney California Adventure. Guests can get a little above the action without having to stray too far. For an afternoon snack and a glass of wine, it’s the perfect little spot. Check out more of our Disneyland Hidden Gem locations in this video! What’s your favorite getaway in the Disney Parks? 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: News! Enjoy Disney Family of Wines and a New Menu at Alfresco Tasting Terrace in Disney California Adventure #OnTheList: Alfresco Tasting Terrace at Disney California Adventure News! Mickey’s Fun Wheel from Cove Bar Now Available at Alfresco Tasting Terrace! View the full article

At least one piece of merchandise sold at Disney’s Toy Story Land will be familiar – but also twisted. Literally. Visitors to the attraction, under construction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park, will be able to wear Slinky Dogs on their heads. It will be more like a variation on the popular... View the full article

If Disney has taught us one thing through the years, it's that when you wish upon a star, your dreams come true. Well, we wished long and hard for a Disney home goods store, and now the House the Mouse Built has delivered. Earlier this month, the much-anticipated Disney Home store opened at Disneyland... View the full article

By using Disney PhotoPass Service, you’ll capture photos you can’t take on your own: photos of the entire family, of you enjoying beloved attractions, in front of virtual backgrounds, and today’s topic, Magic Shots, which feature Disney Characters and other exciting surprises that PhotoPass adds to your pictures. When you take a Magic Shot with a Disney PhotoPass photographer, you never know who – or what – will appear in your photo when you preview it later in the My Disney Experience app or online! From Disney pals like Simba, Pascal, Mickey Mouse, Chip, Sebastian, Bambi, or Stitch, to fun additions like balloons or your favorite refreshing treat, the Magic Shot possibilities are endless. With so many options, today we’re featuring the top five Magic Shots available right now at Walt Disney World Resort: Chill with Olaf in a Magic Shot available in the Norway Pavilion at Epcot, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios near Echo Lake, or at Magic Kingdom Park near the Partners Statue and on the bridge leading into Tomorrowland or Liberty Square. After taking a photo amid the floating mountains in Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you might spot a special addition flying into your picture. Be our guest and take this photo in front of Beast’s enchanted castle at Magic Kingdom Park. Don’t dishonor your cow: Give Mushu the respect he deserves by including him in your photo at the China Pavilion in Epcot. Use a spark of imagination to picture Figment in your photo. Available from any photographer in Epcot’s World Showcase. Be sure to ask your photographer for these Magic Shots! If you want to discover all of the Magic Shots currently available at Walt Disney World Resort, visit the Disney PhotoPass Service Facebook page, navigate to the Photos tab, and then to the Albums. There you’ll find a photo album for each park showing the current Magic Shot offerings and where they can typically be found. We’re always adding new options and locations, so be sure to check it out right before your visit. And don’t forget, Magic Shots are included as part of an active Memory Maker entitlement! Note that these Magic Shots are only available during daylight hours and cannot be taken at Character Experience locations. Some locations are only staffed intermittently by PhotoPass photographers. View the full article

If you wants to see the redhead in her classic role, you may be running out of time. Previously announced changes appear to be coming soon to the Pirates of Caribbean ride at Walt Disney World. Last summer, it was announced that a scene in the longtime Magic Kingdom attraction would get a makeover.... View the full article

We have some exciting news about upcoming Fall events at Walt Disney World! The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort has announced the dates, menus, and seminars for the 9th Annual Food and Wine Classic. Mark your calendars for Friday, October 26, and Saturday, October 27, 2018! The Food and Wine Classic also coincides with the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. And once again, the Food and Wine Classic will include both Seminars and The Causeway. Want to know what else you can expect at the 2018 Food and Wine Classic? Here’s a run down! The Causeway The central attraction of the Classic is the more than 40 tasting stations featuring dishes from the resort’s 17 restaurants and lounges as well as more than 30 wineries on the Causeway. Check out the Menus page for an idea of what you can expect! Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic This year several new menu items are joining returning favorites including Dynamite Rock Shrimp, Late Season Zellwood Corn, Wasabi Foam, Matsutake & Japanese Eggplant, Crispy Lotus Root from bluezoo, and Shake & Bake Style Southern Fried Chicken, Black-Eyed Pea Puree, White Cheddar Fondue, Bacon Infused Roast Garlic Gravy from Picabu. Carnival Corner, Chinatown, and The Pig & Poke In addition to the Causeway Tasting Booths, the Food and Wine Classic offers three special food areas this year, Carnival Corner, Chinatown, and NEW for 2018, The Pig & Poke. In Carnival Corner, guests can indulge in dressed up fair food! We’ve delighted in Hand Dipped Corn Dogs, Kettle Corn, and Funnel Cakes in years past. We excited to see if these fun favorites return this year! Funnel Cakes from Carnival Corner Chinatown joined the line up in 2016 and returns again this year, and the food is incredible. Crispy Duck I’ll be lining up for seconds of their Crispy Duck and Shanghai Dumplings this fall! The Pig & Poke is a new Hawaiian Luau-themed area where guests can indulge in new menu items including Traditional Earth Baked Kalua Pork, “Tuna Poke,” and Shave Ice. We can’t wait to hear more details about this new area! The Beer Garden The Beer Garden, first introduced in 2014, makes its way back again this year. Look for lots and LOTS of craft beer and cider, both local and national. Terrace Beer Garden Entrance In addition, the area offers guests tasty dishes, like Jager Schnitzel and new for 2018, a Berliner Doner Kabab featuring Split Roasted Strauss Farm Veal, Garlic & Parsley Yogurt Sauce, Red Cabbage and Onions, Buttered Warm Flatbread. Jager Schnitzel The Beer Garden is offered as an add-on to your Causeway Ticket for an additional cost. Seminars Seminars offer an immersive educational opportunity as participants delve deeper into the crafting of beverages, food and beverage pairing, and cooking demos. From Base to Bubbles Seminar This year, there will be 10 seminars offered — including two returning favorites that were new in 2017, “Riesling: So Sweet and So Dry” and the “Grand Tasting Experience.” Check out our Seminars page for details and pricing. Sunday Bubbles Brunch Also returning in 2018 will be the Sunday Bubbles Brunch. The event, which will once more take place at Il Mulino New York Trattoria, will be held on Sunday, October 28. Il Mulino We’ll share the updated menu soon! Check out our review of the 2017 WDW Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic! 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. Don’t forget to join the FREE Disney Food Blog newsletter for all the latest news ASAP on the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! Will you be attending the 2018 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic? Leave a comment and tell us what you’re looking forward to the most! 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! Dates and Details Announced for the 2017 WDW Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic 2018 WDW Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Dates Announced! News! Menus and Details for the 2014 Fifth Annual Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic View the full article

It has never been easy to snag an Advance Dining Reservation at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom ever since it opened in late 2012. But that has been especially true as of late, as reservations simply weren’t coming up for dinner availability at all for dates starting in late July. And now we know why… Be Our Guest Restaurant Beginning July 27, 2018, Dinner at Be Our Guest Restaurant will transform from a la carte into a prix fixe dinner menu, featuring your choice of appetizer and entree, along with a personal dessert platter. Escargot Appetizer ©Disney Appetizer choices will include the popular French Onion Soup, which will be joined on the list by Charred Octopus with citrus-laced fingerling potatoes, pickled hearts of palm and red pepper coulis; Escargot with herb garlic butter and toasted gremolata; and a selection of assorted meats and cheeses like chicken liver pâté, chorizo sausage Manchego, and truffle tremor as examples. Charred Octopus and Assorted Meats and Cheeses ©Disney The entree choices will feature Grilled Center-Cut Filet Mignon with potato au gratin, Romano beans, Cipollini marmalade and a cherry-laced red wine reduction. Entree selections will include Filet Mignon ©Disney Also on the list will be Smoked Black-Eye Pea Tortellini with roasted seasonal vegetables, tomato relish, and basil-scented tomato water. Tortellini ©Disney Additional choices will include Poulet Rouge Chicken, Saffron-Infused Seafood Bouillabaisse, Roasted Lamb Chops and Kurobuta Pork Tenderloins. Roasted Lamb Chops ©Disney Seafood Bouillabaisse ©Disney And as for that personal dessert platter? That has yet to be announced, but we can only hope (and possibly assume) that at least one of the offerings will feature The Grey Stuff! Again, this new prix fixe dinner will begin on July 27, and Advance Dining Reservations will open up THIS FRIDAY, February 23rd. We will be keeping an eye on whether this new experience will change Dinner at Be Our Guest Restaurant from one Table Service credit to two on the Disney Dining Plan, and will keep you posted right here! 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 try the prix fixe dinner menu coming to the Beast’s Castle? 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: Breakfast at Be Our Guest Restaurant is Permanent Guest Review: New Dish at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom New! The Grey Stuff Cupcake and Other Menu Updates at Disney World’s Be Our Guest Restaurant View the full article

If you tuned in to Good Morning America last Friday, then you know the BIG news — Toy Story Land is opening at Walt Disney World on June 30! The news was so huge that Good Morning America was not the only major morning show to make the announcement. Slinky Dog also made an appearance on Univision’s Despierta America, their top morning show dedicated to the Hispanic audience. Here’s a special behind the scenes look at the making of the show. Keep your eyes open for a salsa-dancing Buzz Lightyear! I can’t wait for Toy Story Land to open! How about you? View the full article

I can’t believe it’s almost time for the 2018 Oscars – the 90th Academy Awards! The glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s biggest night is synonymous with A-list celebrities and our favorite films, but what if you could walk the red carpet and take your very own selfie with an Oscar Statuette here at Walt Disney World Resort? My coworkers Ligia, Jessica and I ventured out to the place where you can enter the worlds of your favorite movies every day: Disney’s Hollywood Studios! After visiting a galaxy far, far away, stepping into the twilight zone and boarding a limo to a rockin’ concert in L.A., we were ready to walk the red carpet and “accept” our own award at the Walt Disney: One Man’s Dream exhibit. Check it out! From now until the big night on March 4, Disney’s Hollywood Studios guests are able to walk the red carpet and take their picture with an iconic Oscar statuette inside the exhibit. Cool, huh? Oh, and check out the video below for a message from Oscars host, Jimmy Kimmel! Guests can follow all of the latest Oscars news on Twitter at twitter.com/TheAcademy. Guests are encouraged to share their “My Oscar Moment” using #Oscars @WaltDisneyWorld. Exclusive red carpet coverage begins Sunday, March 4th at 6:30e|3:30p, immediately followed by the awards ceremony hosted by Jimmy Kimmel at 8e|5p. Tune in to ABC on your television or live stream the Oscars at abc.com or the ABC app. View the full article

Our culinary teams are always looking for new ways to bring exquisite and delicious cuisine to our guests, and they have done just that with a brand-new dining experience at Magic Kingdom Park! Starting this summer, Be Our Guest Restaurant will offer an enhanced prix fixe dinner menu that boasts a variety of delectable French-inspired dishes and new offerings. This unique experience will make you feel like royalty with a three-course dinner that includes your choice of appetizer and entrée, followed by a personal dessert platter. To start off your meal, the appetizer menu will include favorites like the French Onion Soup in addition to rich new offerings like Charred Octopus with citrus-laced fingerling potatoes, pickled hearts of palm and red pepper coulis; Escargot with herb garlic butter and toasted gremolata; and a selection of assorted meats and artisanal cheeses such as chicken liver pâté, chorizo sausage Manchego, and truffle tremor. For the main course, feast on mouth-watering entrées such as Grilled Center-Cut Filet Mignon with potato au gratin, Romano beans, Cipollini marmalade and a cherry-laced red wine reduction or the Smoked Black-Eye Pea Tortellini with roasted seasonal vegetables, tomato relish and basil-scented tomato water. Other enticing dishes include Poulet Rouge Chicken, Saffron-Infused Seafood Bouillabaisse, Roasted Lamb Chops and Kurobuta Pork Tenderloins. And that’s just the beginning! Our chefs are hard at work putting the final touches on the fabulous desserts as well as the kid’s menu for this exquisite new dining experience. Stay tuned for updates on these menus. So, relax! Let us pull up a chair, as the dining room proudly presents this new dinner feast beginning July 27 at Be Our Guest Restaurant. Reservations will open this Friday, February 23rd, and can be booked online or by calling 407-WDW-DINE (407-939-3463). View the full article

Did you have a chance to see Marvel Studios’ record-breaking “Black Panther” over the weekend? If so, you know that teamwork is at the core of the movie. (And if you didn’t see it, don’t worry … no spoilers here!) Just like T’Challa, Shuri and the Dora Milaje in the action-packed movie, teams across Walt Disney World Resort joined forces to make a dream come true for kids from the Disney Clubhouse, a branch of Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Florida, who are part of a comic book club. Last week, cast members from the PULSE Diversity Resource Group visited the group with a special surprise – tickets to an exclusive screening of the new Marvel Studios film and a unique interactive “Black Panther” activity packet developed by Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment team. Through an introduction to the film and engaging activities, the kids learned about the strength of nature and the power of finding your inner hero, just like T’Challa. Black Panther is a hero inspired from nature, whose abilities and visual appearance mimic the strengths and adaptation of the animal that shares his name. The film touches on several themes that speak to the importance of protecting nature. Wakanda itself is somewhat utopian in its balance with nature. The intermingling of technology and nature, themes that sometimes appear at odds with each other, is critical to the survival of the Wakandan people. One of the themes kids learned about was biomimicry, an approach to innovation that emulates designs and ideas found in nature. Patterns in nature have long inspired scientists and helped them develop solutions to challenges. They also learned more about rhinos, one of the animal species Disney is working to protect. M20 is a massive, virtually indestructible rhinoceros featured in the film. Unfortunately, rhinos in the wild are much more vulnerable and face multiple threats of habitat loss and poaching. You can learn more about rhinos and how Disney is working to reverse the decline of this endangered species at DisneyAnimals.com. To learn more about Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther” and its celebration of nature, download the free activity packet. Enjoy games, puzzles and crafts that showcase the power of nature and the benefits of spending time outdoors. Check out Marvel Studios’ “Black Panther,” now playing in theaters nationwide. View the full article

The Orlando-area hotel industry saw a surge in its revenue per room in January, climbing 14.1 percent to $107.07, according to the monthly report from STR. The Central Florida market had the second-biggest leap in average daily rate, an increase of 8.9 percent to $135.96. That trails only Super... View the full article

The Orlando-area hotel industry saw a surge in its revenue per available room rate in January, climbing 14.1 percent to $107.07, according to the monthly report from STR. The Central Florida market had the second-biggest leap in average daily rate, an increase of 8.9 percent to $135.96. That trails... View the full article

If you are looking for an eclectic meal in the heart of Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom, Tiffins could be the right choice. Open just under two years, Tiffins is a Signature Dining experience — which means it requires two Disney Dining Plan table service credits (or quite an investment from your wallet). Learn About: Tiffins Animal Kingdom Disney World Restaurants But guests agree that dining in Tiffins is as much about the atmosphere as it is the food. The restaurant is inspired by travel and the wonderful adventures that take place when one steps out of one’s comfort zone. You’ll see nods to travel quite literally everywhere — from wall to wall. You’ll also find love for animals and conservation in the artwork at Tiffins, in keeping with the Park’s theme. The food at Tiffins is an interesting blend of flavors and ingredients from around the globe, and it’s generally enjoyed by guests who yearn for something adventurous in their dining. Tiffins, and her sister Nomad Lounge, adjust their menus with some regularity (particularly on the Small Plates menus), so if you plan on dining here, you’ll want to keep an eye on the menus. Tiffins Sign, with tiffins on top Atmosphere You will never be at a loss for what to see at Tiffins as the dining room galleries are chock full of amazing pieces of art. We recommend taking a stroll before or after your meal to really get a sense for the variety and integrity of the decor. Some, like these totem poles, speak to the origins of Animal Kingdom (they’re a rescue from Camp Minnie-Mickey!). Mickey Minnie Campground Pillars This wall of three dimensional butterflies and artwork depicting close-ups of insects celebrates the Earth’s largest class. Insects and Tiles Portraying Insect Skin Patterns More unusual pieces embrace the odds and ends of travel — like this collection of wires reminiscent of that which travelers sometimes see in villages and towns around the globe. Electric Wires in Artwork Seating varies from tables and chairs to comfy booths. The upholstery reminds me of old fashioned suitcases. Seating So what did we eat in this warm and stimulating environment? Let’s find out. Eats Tiffins and Nomad Lounge are known for their creative cocktails, so before I could think about food, I had to check out the Specialty Cocktails Menu. You’ll probably want to spend some time with this one because the descriptions of drinks are intriguing. Cocktails! I started with a Snow Leopard Salvation — a combo of Snow Leopard Vodka, Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur, Mint, Lime Juice, and Ginger Beer. Snow Leopard Salvation This drink was super refreshing and tasty. It gives me mint julep vibes. Snow Leopard Salvation Lambu Libation is a beautiful drink. It’s comprised of Starr African Rum; Cruzan Banana Rum; Guava Puree; Orange, Lime, and Pineapple Juices; and Gosling’s 151 Rum. Lambu Libation If you think it looks like POG juice (pineapple/orange/guava combo found in spots around the World), you aren’t far off. It’s like grown up POG juice — and it’s awesome! It might be a bit sweet before a heavy meal, but we definitely recommend it if you think you can handle that! Lambu Libation Small Plates are all the rage at Nomad Lounge and Tiffins, which share a Small Plates menu. We do see items on this menu change with some frequency, so you might find some of these items have changed if you visit in the future. Small Plates There’s also an Appetizer Menu at Tiffins — and it’s loaded with yummy eats like Tiffins Signature Bread Service and Marinated Grilled Octopus! Don’t Forget To Check Out Our Original Full Review of Tiffins Here! Apps But I opted to skip the Small Plates and Apps and go straight to the Main Courses on this visit, but you can check out some appetizers on our original Tiffins review here! Main Courses Main Courses and Enhancements A meal at Tiffins begins with their lovely complimentary Pomegranate Focaccia Bread, which comes with a mix of Pomegranate, Molasses, and Olive Oil for spreading or dipping. Pomegranate Foccacia Some guests find this bread and oil combination a little on the sweet side — but I like it. The oil goes a long way, so pace yourself! But the bread is beautifully baked and seasoned, and the use of pomegranate is unexpected. Pomegranate, Molasses, and Olive Oil As for Main Courses, the first of the day was Wagyu Striploin and Braised Short Rib. We absolutely devoured this on our first visit to Tiffins in 2016, but this time it fell a little flat for me. The roasted purple potatoes and carrot ribbons are good accompaniments (though not overly creative) — and the chimichurri is outstanding! But the steak was pretty standard and really didn’t wow me. Also, I found the portion to be small for the seriously WAY TOO HIGH price. Wagyu Striploin and Braised Short Rib But the Pan-Seared Duck Breast was outstanding! It comes with a selection of incredible accompaniments, including confit duck leg, parsnip puree, and huckleberry compote. Pan-Seared Duck Breast It was seriously very very good. The duck was super flavorful and the seasonings and spices were spot on. Again, I do wish the portion size was larger, or the sides more substantial for the price of the entree. Pan-Seared Duck Breast Dessert time!! Dessert Menu I opted for the South American Chocolate Ganache, which we also loved on our first visit. And though the composition has changed some, it’s still incredibly indulgent and a decadent way to end the meal. South American Chocolate Ganache I loved the caramelized banana slices and the chocolate nib tuiles. The pomegranate sauce was a great foil to the rich chocolate too. Chocolate Ganache Nosh or Not? You’ll want to give Tiffins a try if: You love to try adventurous and creative food. You’re looking for a cultural experience to go along with your meal. You’re an Animal Kingdom fan and want to explore all of the decor (though you could do this for free). You’re on the Disney Dining Plan. (This restaurant isn’t worth the money paying out of pocket IMO.) You might want to adventure elsewhere if: You have a tight budget for your trip (or prefer not to spend two DDP table service credits on one meal). You prefer quick service meals in order to maximize your time in the parks. You or your party aren’t very adventurous eaters. You’re looking for a larger portion size for your entrees. Overall Tiffins has gotten some very good and some very bad reviews since it opened. The food is fine — and definitely imaginative — but there are definitely better signature dining locations in Disney World. Let us know what you think in the comments! Check out our Disney World Signature Dining Restaurants RANKED Video here! This will give you a good idea of where to spend those two DDP credits! 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! Tiffins Restaurant Brings Signature Dining to Animal Kingdom in 2016 Full Review: Tiffins at Disney’s Animal Kingdom News: Menu Details for Tiffins Restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom View the full article

When Pixar Fest begins April 13, the sky above Disneyland park will light up with an all-new fireworks show, “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular”! Dazzling pyrotechnics will combine with memorable music to celebrate the theme of friendship which is central to many favorite Pixar films. In the video below, learn how the team behind “Together Forever” worked to create a score that celebrates the everlasting friendships forged by beloved Pixar pals. See it all come together when “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” debuts April 13 at Disneyland park with the launch of Pixar Fest throughout the Disneyland Resort! View the full article

Last weekend, legendary journalist and TV personality Joan Lunden shared that she would be reliving memories with her husband and the two sets of twins at Walt Disney World Resort – a familiar place, very dear to her heart! Lunden is a huge Disney Parks fan! The love affair began in California when she, as a child, first visited Disneyland in its opening year. Since then, she enjoyed regular trips to Disney Parks and always told her parents that working alongside the famous Mouse would be a dream. Well, she fulfilled her childhood dream while hosting Good Morning America when she was assigned to cover the opening of Epcot back in 1982. Soon after, she was assigned to host the Disney Parks Christmas and Easter parade broadcasts for nearly two decades! Lunden has kept very busy over the years since then. Apart from being an award-winning journalist and TV personality, Lunden is a bestselling author, motivational speaker, successful entrepreneur and of course, a mom of seven. Today, she feels very fortunate to continue experiencing the magic of Disney with her family, reliving the nostalgia as often as possible. What are some of your most nostalgic memories at Disney Parks? View the full article