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It’s not every day that I am surprised by a Quick Service meal at Walt Disney World. Learn About: Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory Disney World Restaurants But Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Port Orleans Resort — French Quarter has done just that! French Quarter is the sister Resort to Port Orleans, Riverside, and while both are located along the picturesque Sassagoula River and share boats that carry guests to and from Disney Springs, the Resorts’ personalities are markedly different. Riverside has a down-home, relaxed, on-the-bayou feel, with the Riverside Mill Food Court capturing the industrial spirit of New Orleans. The French Quarter, on the other hand, features the ornate wrought iron and colorful architecture of the French Quarter in New Orleans, while dancing jesters and musical alligators dotting the landscape provide more than a hint of whimsy. The French Quarter’s primary dining option — alongside Scat Cat’s Club, where you can often catch live tunes along with your drink, and Mardi Grogs, the pool bar — is Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory. This quick service food court used to wow (and kinda creep out) guests with its massive Mardi Gras float decor suspended from the ceiling. It was colorful and busy with something new to discover on every visit. Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory A 2016 renovation gave Sassagoula Floatworks a total overhaul, so let’s check out what the space looks like now once again before we grab a bite to eat. Atmosphere The colorful, oversized Mardi Gras props that used to hang from the ceiling from wall to wall still take some part in the Floatworks decor, only on a much more subdued level. Last year’s renovation delivered a more simplified and industrial design to the food court. Guests were torn about the change, with some lamenting the loss of such over-the-top theming, while others appreciated the streamlined and less markedly terrifying look. Either way, there is still color in concentrated amounts, and Mardi Gras details remain present (if much less conspicuous). Mardi Gras decor makes an appearance We visited the newly renovated spot on its reopening day, and since then, further enhancements have been added to the decor, with the introduction of some art installations and Mardi Gras beads, all hung from the open, ‘factory-like’ ceiling. Glass bottle art Glass ‘bead’ artwork Umbrellas It’s fun to see a touch of those “larger than life” accents return. The ordering area itself was likewise simplified (though it’s always been smaller than other Moderate Resort food courts). Black and white tile floors lead to arched food stations, each with an LED menu board. Food Court A Grab and Go island in the center of the court contains a variety of drinks and snacks, plus the Resort Refillable Mugs, of course. Grab and Go Island The renovation also brought the introduction of Coke Freestyle machines to Sassagoula Floatworks. Coke Freestyle Machines But while the food court saw a dramatic change, the menu at Sassagoula Floatworks stayed true to its N’awlins roots while enhancing some of its regular offerings. Eats The menus at Sassagoula have something for everyone from the Chicken Nugget Set to the Foodie… and all of the Beignet lovers in between! Menu Highlights Create-Your-Own Pasta resides alongside Cajun Bayou Pizza at the Pizza & Pasta Station. Pasta Menu A Power Salad keeps company with Gumbo and Po’ Boys. Salads and Sandwiches Po’Boys And Hand-dipped Ice Cream cozies up to the Beignet Sundae. Sweets And HERE is where Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory surprised me. Because, frankly, neither of the items I ordered really looked all that appealing when I received them. But, thankfully, I pressed on… For my entree I went with Jambalaya, a traditional Louisiana rice dish featuring chicken and andouille sausage. I love Jambalaya, and the version at Boatwright’s next door is one of my favorites. Upon presentation, it looked dry and bland. Jambalaya However, upon hitting the taste buds, it really delivered some terrific flavor! I love the Cajun seasoning of the rice, and the andouille sausage carried a hint of spice. Though it may not quite live up to the Jambalaya at Boatwright’s Dining Hall, for a Counter Service option? I say, heck, yeah! I couldn’t stop eating it! For dessert, I snagged a House-made Mickey Praline. When we enjoyed this previously, it had a nice, golden hue, and I was looking forward to it again. But this time, it appeared that the sugar had crystalized, which I expected would give the Praline an unpleasant gritty texture. Pecan Praline But that wasn’t the case! It wasn’t gritty at all. It was still crazy good, with that sweetness of the brown sugar balanced by the nutty pecans. Small, but rich and even a bit decadent. Plus… MICKEY! My personal favorite pal to join me down here in N’awlins . Nosh or Not? You’ll want to float on over to Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory if: You’re staying at Port Orleans — French Quarter or Riverside and want to grab a tasty quick service meal. You never skip Beignets on your Disney vacation, and want to try some additional Louisiana-inspired eats. You enjoy leisurely boat rides and find yourself on the Sassagoula River Cruise from Disney Springs. You might want to go another direction if: You don’t plan on spending time at the Port Orleans Resorts. Quick Service, even when it’s nicely amped up, isn’t your thing. You want to try the more diverse offerings at nearby Disney Springs instead. Overall On this trip, I ate at both Riverside Mill Food Court and Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory. And while Riverside’s meal looked a whole lot more impressive, I have to say that my meal at Sassagoula is one that I would actually make a point to eat again, even if I’m not in the area for any other reason. My sentimental side may miss a bit of the old design of the food court itself, but as far as the food goes? I’m still totally down with the renovation here one year later. We’re all still rollin’ in the good times at Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory! (Oh, and if you were wondering what was so scary about the previous incarnation of the food court…) Look familiar? 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. Have you been surprised by a Disney Resort Quick Service meal or treat? 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: Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Closing for Refurbishment on July 11 Review: Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Port Orleans Resort, French Quarter Review: The NEW Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory at Port Orleans Resort, French Quarter View the full article

Disney-goers riding the Monorail to Epcot recently captured video of the train traveling with one side of the door open. A Disney spokeswoman said the Monorail train on the red line was immediately removed from service after the incident happened midday Saturday. Disney values safety and regrets... View the full article

It’s the start of a new year, and as I shared in last week’s post, I’m diving full force into healthier habits in 2018. It’s both a blessing and a curse that my office is located at Disney Springs…let’s just say I’ve tried most of the offerings here, and more than a few of them fall into the “splurge” category! Luckily for you, I’ve discovered plenty of menu items that are both delicious and nutritious. Read on for a few of my favorites: Taqueria Salad (Frontera Cocina): With petite baby gem lettuces, carrots, radishes, avocado, cotija cheese and tortilla strips, this salad dressed with avocado-lime vinaigrette has become my go-to when I’m craving greens. I usually add shrimp (always cooked just right), but it’s delicious with grilled chicken, too! Spicy Tuna Roll (Morimoto Asia): Fresh tuna, spicy mayo and scallions work together to make every bite pure perfection. If you want to up the “good for you” factor, you can request brown rice in place of white at no extra cost. Tuna’s not your thing? Spicy salmon, spicy yellowtail, eel & avocado, California or vegetable rolls are also on the menu. Fresh Fish of the Day (Paddlefish): Confession, well into my early 20s, I thought I “didn’t like” seafood. Turns out, I just hadn’t tried the right dishes! Today, fresh fish is one of my make-at-home staples, but if I’m being honest, I’d much rather let the culinary team and Paddlefish serve up their latest catch of the day. I’ve dined there several times, and there’s magic happening in their kitchen. Filet Medallion (STK): Did you know that filet mignon is one of the healthiest cuts of beef? Well, it is, and I couldn’t be happier about it. The 6-ounce portion at STK Orlando is just the right size for steak lovers who still want to show off their skinny jeans. To really stick to your resolutions, skip the mashed potatoes (pictured) and add an order of asparagus or a side of cucumbers & heirloom tomatoes instead. Red Vine Pizza (Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza): Pizza doesn’t usually show up on the “healthy” list, but hear me out … with classic dough, red sauce, grated parmesan, ovalini mozzarella, fresh basil, cherry tomatoes and an olive oil drizzle, the Red Vine Pizza from Blaze is a solid choice. Not that I’m saying you should, but you could have an entire pizza for 660 calories. Split it with a friend, and you’ll agree that it’s a smart choice, indeed! While I’m certainly not a nutritional expert, the five favorites above always leave me feeling satisfied, but not stuffed. If you’re trying to improve your overall health and well-being, too, be sure to make choices that feel right to you! I can promise you this … if you look hard enough, there are lots of options that can help keep you on track. Do you have a favorite mindful menu item from Disney Springs? If so, share it in the comments below – I’m always on the lookout for new finds! View the full article

This past weekend, runners kicked off the New Year with cheers as they crossed the finish line at the 25th Anniversary Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna. The action-packed race weekend also included the Walt Disney World 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Goofy’s Race and Half Challenge, 5th Anniversary Dopey Challenge, runDisney Kids Races, and the runDisney Health and Fitness Expo. Celebrating 25 years of running magic with everyone’s favorite host, Mickey Mouse, at the most magical race on Earth, runners took on the exciting Walt Disney World Marathon. The 26.2-mile run through all four Walt Disney World theme parks and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex included plenty of surprises, entertainment, and Disney magic along the way. With special entertainment experiences every half mile along the course, from full marching bands to a 100-member choir to nostalgic Disney movie soundtracks and exciting meet & greet opportunities with beloved Disney characters, the four-park celebration was nothing short of spectacular – check out some of our favorite moments! Along with the adrenaline-charged feeling of triumph, every runner received a commemorative finisher’s medal and special 25th anniversary Mickey Mouse ears to wear after crossing the finish line at Epcot. Victory was especially sweet for runner Nick Hilton, who not only became the first American to win the race since 2004, but also qualified for the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for the 2020 Summer Games. Congratulations, runners! Check out more race weekend highlights in our video below and be sure to share your race photos with us using #WDWMarathon25. To learn more about upcoming runDisney events, please visit rundisney.com and visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. View the full article

IT’S BACK! The Epcot International Festival of the Arts is returning for its second year starting January 12, and as an artist and a foodie I’m pretty stoked. Come celebrate the joy of visual, performing and culinary art from around the world with special entertainment, artists and galleries, and of course, world-class cuisine. But let’s be honest, I’m mostly here for the food! Around the World Showcase you’ll find many artistic dishes that will dazzle your taste buds. Our fantastic Epcot Culinary Team has created many beautiful, colorful and delicious dishes this year. And to help you find all of them, I’ve put together this foodie guide of all of our offerings. The festival runs from Jan. 12 to Feb. 19, and you won’t want to miss it! The Deconstructed Dish (Showcase Plaza) Food: Deconstructed Reuben with shredded corned beef, Thousand Island dressing, pickled red cabbage, and a rye curl Deconstructed BLT with crispy pork belly, tomato jam, and a soft poached egg Deconstructed Strawberry Cheesecake: whipped New York style cheesecake with fresh Florida strawberries, sugar cookies and micro-basil Beverages: Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings® Spiced Apple Chai Tea Shake with cream bourbon garnished with a waffle crisp and candied bacon Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings® Spiced Apple Chai Tea Shake garnished with maple syrup, a waffle crisp and candied bacon (non-alcoholic) Intrinsic Cabernet Sauvignon, Washington Pop-Artsicle: red, white, and blue frozen slushy (non-alcoholic) The Artist’s Table (The American Adventure) Food: Roasted Pork Roulade with butternut squash purée, marble potatoes and baby carrots, with a red wine sauce Pan-Seared Scallop with chorizo, roasted red pepper coulis, and parmesan crisp (gluten friendly) Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie Beverages: Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate Flight: white, milk, & dark chocolate (non-alcoholic) Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate: dark chocolate with Chambord Perla Santa Coffee Flavored Wine, Spain Barrymore Rosé, Monterey County, CA Carmel Road Drew’s Blend Pinot Noir, Monterey County, CA Cuisine Classique (Germany) Food: Red Wine-braised Beef Short Rib with parsnip purée, broccolini, baby tomatoes, and aged balsamic Seared Corvina with braised ratatouille and lemon-thyme beurre blanc (gluten friendly) Saint-Honoré Tart: caramel cream tart with caramel glaze topped with cream puffs Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie Beverages: Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, Chico, CA Bell’s Two Hearted American-style India Pale Ale, Kalamazoo, MI Duck-Rabbit Milk Stout, Farmville, NC Beer Braising Flight Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva Art Series, Logrono, Spain Domaine Savary Chablis, Burgundy Pop Eats (Showcase Plaza) Food: Sous Vide Poulet Rouge Chicken Roulade with apples and sage served with warm brie fondue, blueberry and beet gel and garnished with apple and beet chips (gluten friendly) Shrimp Ceviche with lime mint foam (gluten friendly) Almond Frangipane Cake layered with raspberry jam and chocolate (vegetarian) Pop’t Art: Modern-designed Sugar Cookie with strawberry filling (vegetarian) Beverages: Popping Bubbles Cocktail Cloudem Sparkling Wine Masterpiece Kitchen (Near Canada) Food: Smoked Salmon Tartare, Caviar, Crisp Focaccia and traditional accompaniments Wild Mushroom Risotto, Aged Parmesan, Truffle Shavings and Zinfandel Reduction (vegetarian) Charcuterie Palette with artisan cured meats and cheeses featuring Nueske’s® Applewood Smoked Beef Triple Chocolate Mousse, Chocolate Crunch, Dark Chocolate Sauce and Gold Leaf Beverages: Perrier-Jouët Belle Epoque Brut Champagne Classic Sidecar with a Chocolate Twist The Meeker Vineyard Winemakers’ Handprint Merlot, Sonoma County, CA Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut Rosé Silverado Vineyards Chardonnay Painter’s Palate (Odyssey, Festival Center) Food: Trio of Savory Croissant Doughnuts: Whipped Garlic & Fine Herbs Cheese with fresh herbs (vegetarian) Chicken Salad with shaved fennel and fresh herbs Spicy Tuna with Wasabi and Seaweed Salad Gallery Bites: A Trio of Hors d’Oeuvres Chilled Shrimp with cucumber cream cheese on a crostini Traditional Deviled Egg with candied bacon Crispy Truffled Risotto Ball with truffled aïoli (vegetarian) Pop’t Art: Abstract-designed Sugar Cookie with strawberry filling (vegetarian) White Chocolate Figment Puzzle on an Artist Palette Mickey and Pluto White Chocolate Painting with chocolate easel (gluten and vegetarian friendly) Festival of the Arts White Chocolate Painting with chocolate easel (gluten and vegetarian friendly) Beverages: Pomegranate Mule featuring Van Gogh Vodka North Coast Brewing Co. Scrimshaw Pilsner Style Beer, Fort Bragg, CA M.I.A. Beer Company Jazz IPA, Doral, FL Central 28 Beer Company Miss Mary Brown Oatmeal Brown Ale, DeBary, FL Popcorn Pairing Flight Decadent Delights (Showcase Plaza) Food: White Chocolate and Purple Sweet Potato Mousse, Caramel, Coconut and Maple Meringue S’mores Tart: House-smoked Buttermilk Chocolate Cake with chocolate mousse, toasted marshmallow meringue, graham cracker dust and malted milk chocolate sauce Chocolate Caramel Mousse Bar, Flavored Meringue Kisses and Passion Fruit Sauce Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie Beverages: Ferreira 10 Year Old Port 3 Daughters Strawberry Blonde Nitro, St. Petersburg, FL Breckenridge Nitro Vanilla Porter, Breckenridge, CO Young’s Double Chocolate Stout, England Neapolitan Beer Flight Coppo Moncalvina Moscato d’Asti, Piedmont Block and Hans (The American Adventure) Beverages: Honor Brewing Company Warrior IPA, Chantilly, VA Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale, Lexington, KY Ciderboys Grand Mimosa Apple Orange Hard Cider, Stevens Point, WI Kona Brewing Co. Wailua Wheat, Kailua-Kona, HI M.I.A. Brewing Mega Mix Pale Ale, Doral, FL Founders Brewing Co. Porter, Grand Rapids, MI Bell’s Amber Ale, Kalamazoo, MI Refreshment Outpost (Between China and Germany) Food: Chilled Shrimp, Quinoa, Layered Vegetables, Spiced Yogurt and Red Pepper Coulis Fife and Drum (American Adventure) Food: Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate Chip Cookie Refreshment Port (Showcase Plaza) Food: Croissant Doughnut filled with Pastry Cream and Colored Pearls L’Art de la Cuisine Française (France) Food: Rillettes du Mans, Cornichons, Carré du Boulanger: house-made pork rillettes, cornichons and house-made bread Saumon en Croute Façon Paul Bocuse: salmon in a puff pastry crust Paul Bocuse-style with spinach and beurre blanc sauce Le Coucher de Soleil: sunset mango and raspberry cake Beverages: Frosé: Frozen Côtes de Provence Rosé Wine with Grey Goose Vodka and Peach Purée L’Or par Edmond Thery: French Sparkling Chardonnay Alsace, Pinot Blanc, Reserve 2015, Gustave Lorentz Bordeaux, Château Tour de Granins, Grand Poujeaux, Moulis en Medoc 2015 Mosaic Canteen (Morocco) Food: Hummus Trifle: Layered Hummus topped with spiced beef, pine nuts and dry cherries, served with pita chips Mediterranean Flat Bread with za’atar, olive oil artichoke, olives, mozzarella and feta cheese Chebbakia: hand-twisted strips of fried dough coated with honey, rosewater and sesame seeds Beverage: Embrace the Arak: Massaya Arak, Orange Juice and Grenadine Tarima Red, Alicante, Spain Casa Beer El Artista Hambriento (Mexico) Food: Mixiote de Cordero: wrapped slow-braised lamb, marinated in tres chiles paste and spices Tacos de Puerco: two corn tortillas with slow-roasted pork shoulder, marinated in ancho paste and served with sweet plantain purée and garnished with pea tendrils Atole de Fresa and Mexican Concha Bread: warm strawberry drink served with Mexican concha bread Beverages: Frida Guava Margarita Diego Passion Margarita on the rocks Allende Craft Mexican Golden Ale Takumi Table (Japan) Food: Chirashi Sushi and Haupia Pearl: salmon, tuna and yuzu miso with coconut tapioca pudding Taiyaki Dessert: Japanese stuffed pastry, sweet red bean filling, sesame cream, and raspberry sauce Beverages: Calpico Yogurt Strawberry Swirl Sake Masu Sake in a Personalized Wooden Cup The Painted Panda (China) Food: Coconut Panda Rice Cake Crispy Fried Shrimp in a Wonton Lotus Flower Crystal Mooncake with fruit filling and garnished with toasted coconut Beverages: Scarlet Blossom: A cooler of Mango Wine, Strawberry Syrup and Ginger Ale Fortune Cookie: ByeJoe Dragon Fire, Amaretto, Coconut and Pineapple Strawberry Bubble Tea (non-alcoholic) L’Arte di Mangiare (Italy) Food: Involtini di Salmone al Basilico, Piso Venere, Salsa Romesco: basil-scented salmon roulade, purple rice and romesco sauce Sformato di Melanzane e Pomodori, Mozzarella Fior di Latte: tomato and eggplant terrine, fior di latte mozzarella Crema Fritta, Pesche e Rucola Pesto, Ciliege di Amarasca: cream fritters, peach and arugula pesto and amarena cherries Beverages: Amaretto Bellini: Amaretto, White Peach Purée and Prosecco Vodka Rossini: Vodka, Strawberry Purée and Prosecco Prosecco, Villa Sandi Moscato Fior d’Arancio, Montegrande Corbinello, Montegrande Pinot Grigio, Bosco del Merlo Merlot, Montegrande Moretti Lager Moretti La Rossa Double Malt Beer Funnel Cakes (American Adventure) Orange Cream Funnel Cake Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company Future World East Painted Lady Latte: a shot of Joffrey’s Italian Espresso mixed with rich Baileys Espresso Créme Liqueur, topped with steamed milk and whipped cream Canada Night Sky Latte: a delicious shot of Joffrey’s Italian Espresso mixed with Creamy Godiva Chocolate Liqueur, topped with steamed milk and whipped cream Disney Traders Cinnamon Sensation: a shot of Italian Espresso mixed with RumChata and Cinnamon Whiskey, blended with steamed milk and whipped cream The American Adventure Dreamy Bourbon: a shot of Italian Espresso mixed with Bourbon Whiskey Cream Liqueur, blended with steamed milk and whipped cream View the full article

Disney’s Care and Conservation of Tigers Supports Species View the full article

Meet The 11 New Park-Savvy Panelists Offering Personalized Vacation Planning Advice LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Jan. 9, 2018 – With January kicking off a busy vacation planning season, Disney Parks today announced its new class of panelists joining the Disney Parks Moms Panel. The 11 new panelists, carefully selected from thousands of applicants to provide honest and relatable vacation tips, are committed to making the planning process easier by offering personalized guidance to help turn dream Disney vacations into a reality. The Disney Parks Moms Panel is an online resource for individuals thinking about planning a Disney vacation at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line or with Disney Vacation Club. The panelists leverage their vast experiences from their own Disney vacations to provide authentic answers to guests seeking advice – whether for an entire family vacation or for guests traveling without kids. “The magic of the Moms Panel is our collective experience and our diverse backgrounds,” said Jerry M., one of the Disney Dads on the 2018 Disney Parks Moms Panel. “There is so much Disney to see and do that it’s tough to experience everything in a single visit. But what if you had a trusted friend who in fact did experience everything? Wouldn’t it be great to get their advice? That’s the magic of the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Taken together we’ve just about done it all. And like your best friend, we want to see you enjoy yourself.” The 11 new panelists join an impressive roster of 29 alumni moms, dads, and grandparents answering questions at www.disneyparksmomspanel.com: Andrea W.; Warren, Ohio (Walt Disney World Resort) – This single mom, empty nester and expert in multigenerational travel is also the resident expert for all things Star Wars Ashley P.; Lewisburg, Pa. (Walt Disney World Resort) – This mom of three, with her youngest being an infant, knows a thing or two about traveling with babies Jennifer L.; Albuquerque, N.M. (Disneyland Resort) – Specializing in Disneyland Resort, this mom is an expert in helping guests plan their trip to “where it all began” Jerry M.; Stone Harbor, N.J. (Disney Vacation Club) – One of the Disney Dads on the panel, Jerry provides first-hand tips for Disney Vacation Club and planning advice for fellow parents balancing busy work schedules Kristen N.; North Charleston, S.C. (Walt Disney World Resort) – This Air Force wife has mastered the art of planning last-minute Disney vacations Lindsey N.; Atlanta, Ga. (Walt Disney World Resort) – Disney isn’t just for kids, and this military spouse loves helping Disney-loving adults plan their magical getaway Missy F.; Avon, Ind. (Walt Disney World Resort) – With five children of her own, Missy knows what it takes to plan a vacation that accommodates even the pickiest of tastes Robyn M.; Bristow, Va. (Walt Disney World Resort) – This military mom can take any planning challenge and create seamless trips to Disney destinations for large, multigenerational groups Stephanie L.; Dallas, Texas (Disney Cruise Line) – Specializing in Disney Cruises all around the globe – from Alaska to Europe and beyond – this stay-at-home mom with two toddlers knows the ins-and-outs of cruising with kids Tabitha D.; Spring Hill, Tenn. (Walt Disney World Resort) – Lending a hand on planning trips for Disney lovers of all ages, including dining tips and deluxe resorts, this passionate Annual Passholder is an expert at planning Disney vacations, especially during the holidays Veronica O.; Pembroke Pines, Fla. (Walt Disney World Resort) – A local Florida mom who is also a Spanish-speaking Disney expert, offers a fresh perspective for those traveling locally With all of their experiences combined, the 40 Disney Parks Moms Panelists: Have taken 1,250 Disney Vacations – that’s 77,394 hours of Disney Parks experience or 2,204 rides on “it’s a small world.” Know how to travel with kids, with more than 80 kids between them. Can answer guest questions in four languages: English, Spanish, French and Portuguese. Are real moms, dads, grandparents and “in the know” family members. Whether the guest is a military spouse, stay-at-home parent, busy working mom, juggling food allergies or even an adult without kids, the Disney Parks Moms Panel is a reliable resource for those in need of genuine and friendly advice from someone who has experienced it first-hand. Guests can visit www.disneyparksmomspanel.com on a computer or mobile device to access more than 220,000 available questions and answers from seasoned Disney vacationers. Guests can save favorite answers to reference later or ask a new question to receive a personalized response from a knowledgeable member of the Disney Parks Moms Panel. About the Disney Parks Moms Panel The Disney Parks Moms Panel is an online forum where guests can get personalized tips and insights on Disney vacations from real moms, dads, and grandparents who have mastered the art of planning Disney vacations. Guests can pose questions to the panelists in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, as well as gain access to other vacation-planning tools. Featuring just 12 members during its inaugural year in 2008, the panel now boasts approximately 40 park-savvy active panelists as a result of the popularity of the site and the ever-growing number of questions submitted by curious Guests. For more information and to meet the panelists, visit www.disneyparksmomspanel.com. ### View the full article

Meet The 11 New Park-Savvy Panelists Offering Personalized Vacation Planning Advice LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla., Jan. 9, 2018 – With January kicking off a busy vacation planning season, Disney Parks today announced its new class of panelists joining the Disney Parks Moms Panel. The 11 new panelists, carefully selected from thousands of applicants to provide honest and relatable vacation tips, are committed to making the planning process easier by offering personalized guidance to help turn dream Disney vacations into a reality. The Disney Parks Moms Panel is an online resource for individuals thinking about planning a Disney vacation at Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line or with Disney Vacation Club. The panelists leverage their vast experiences from their own Disney vacations to provide authentic answers to guests seeking advice – whether for an entire family vacation or for guests traveling without kids. “The magic of the Moms Panel is our collective experience and our diverse backgrounds,” said Jerry M., one of the Disney Dads on the 2018 Disney Parks Moms Panel. “There is so much Disney to see and do that it’s tough to experience everything in a single visit. But what if you had a trusted friend who in fact did experience everything? Wouldn’t it be great to get their advice? That’s the magic of the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Taken together we’ve just about done it all. And like your best friend, we want to see you enjoy yourself.” The 11 new panelists join an impressive roster of 29 alumni moms, dads, and grandparents answering questions at www.disneyparksmomspanel.com: Andrea W.; Warren, Ohio (Walt Disney World Resort) – This single mom, empty nester and expert in multigenerational travel is also the resident expert for all things Star Wars Ashley P.; Lewisburg, Pa. (Walt Disney World Resort) – This mom of three, with her youngest being an infant, knows a thing or two about traveling with babies Jennifer L.; Albuquerque, N.M. (Disneyland Resort) – Specializing in Disneyland Resort, this mom is an expert in helping guests plan their trip to “where it all began” Jerry M.; Stone Harbor, N.J. (Disney Vacation Club) – One of the Disney Dads on the panel, Jerry provides first-hand tips for Disney Vacation Club and planning advice for fellow parents balancing busy work schedules Kristen N.; North Charleston, S.C. (Walt Disney World Resort) – This Air Force wife has mastered the art of planning last-minute Disney vacations Lindsey N.; Atlanta, Ga. (Walt Disney World Resort) – Disney isn’t just for kids, and this military spouse loves helping Disney-loving adults plan their magical getaway Missy F.; Avon, Ind. (Walt Disney World Resort) – With five children of her own, Missy knows what it takes to plan a vacation that accommodates even the pickiest of tastes Robyn M.; Bristow, Va. (Walt Disney World Resort) – This military mom can take any planning challenge and create seamless trips to Disney destinations for large, multigenerational groups Stephanie L.; Dallas, Texas (Disney Cruise Line) – Specializing in Disney Cruises all around the globe – from Alaska to Europe and beyond – this stay-at-home mom with two toddlers knows the ins-and-outs of cruising with kids Tabitha D.; Spring Hill, Tenn. (Walt Disney World Resort) – Lending a hand on planning trips for Disney lovers of all ages, including dining tips and deluxe resorts, this passionate Annual Passholder is an expert at planning Disney vacations, especially during the holidays Veronica O.; Pembroke Pines, Fla. (Walt Disney World Resort) – A local Florida mom who is also a Spanish-speaking Disney expert, offers a fresh perspective for those traveling locally With all of their experiences combined, the 40 Disney Parks Moms Panelists: Have taken 1,250 Disney Vacations – that’s 77,394 hours of Disney Parks experience or 2,204 rides on “it’s a small world.” Know how to travel with kids, with more than 80 kids between them. Can answer guest questions in four languages: English, Spanish, French and Portuguese. Are real moms, dads, grandparents and “in the know” family members. Whether the guest is a military spouse, stay-at-home parent, busy working mom, juggling food allergies or even an adult without kids, the Disney Parks Moms Panel is a reliable resource for those in need of genuine and friendly advice from someone who has experienced it first-hand. Guests can visit www.disneyparksmomspanel.com on a computer or mobile device to access more than 220,000 available questions and answers from seasoned Disney vacationers. Guests can save favorite answers to reference later or ask a new question to receive a personalized response from a knowledgeable member of the Disney Parks Moms Panel. About the Disney Parks Moms Panel The Disney Parks Moms Panel is an online forum where guests can get personalized tips and insights on Disney vacations from real moms, dads, and grandparents who have mastered the art of planning Disney vacations. Guests can pose questions to the panelists in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese, as well as gain access to other vacation-planning tools. Featuring just 12 members during its inaugural year in 2008, the panel now boasts approximately 40 park-savvy active panelists as a result of the popularity of the site and the ever-growing number of questions submitted by curious Guests. For more information and to meet the panelists, visit www.disneyparksmomspanel.com. ### View the full article

In its 11th year, and just in time for vacation planning season, The Disney Parks Moms Panel welcomes 11 new panelists to share their authentic experiences and planning tips with Guests seeking real advice on planning a magical Disney Vacation. Handpicked from thousands of applicants, the new panelists join an impressive roster of 29 existing Disney Parks Moms Panel alumni answering questions at www.disneyparksmomspanel.com. The 40 active panelists have collectively taken 1250 Disney vacations … that’s more than 77,500 hours of Disney Parks fun, and oh yes, approximately 2,200 rides on “it’s a small world.” Traveling with kids? Not a problem for this group because they have 85 children between them. Yes, they truly do know how to help you plan your Disney dream vacation. In 2018, this group wants to help you plan everything from your first Disney Cruise, to your 25th trip to the Walt Disney World Resort. Looking to celebrate a special occasion at the Disneyland Resort? No problem, our Disneyland specialists can answer all your questions. They are even here to offer guidance when it comes to becoming a Disney Vacation Club member. Did we also mention this group can answer your questions in English, Spanish, French and Portuguese? Whether you are a military spouse, stay-at-home parent, busy working mom, juggling food allergies or even an adult without kids, the 11 new members of the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Andrea, Ashley, Jennifer, Jerry, Kristen, Lindsey, Missy, Robyn, Stephanie, Tabitha and Veronica, can offer genuine and friendly advice from someone who has been there first-hand –it’s just like reaching out to ask a friend! To learn more about our newest members, or ask a question about planning your upcoming Disney vacation, simply visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from one of our knowledgeable panelists. View the full article

The “Festival of the Lion King” stage show has been a guest favorite at Disney’s Animal Kingdom since it opened in April 22, 1998. This musical retelling of Simba’s adventures in “The Lion King” features amazing live music, beautiful costumes, dancers, gymnasts and more. How well do you know the show? Take our quiz to test your knowledge! .quiz-container#wp-quiz-197941{ background-color:#f0f8fb; color:#565656; border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-197941 .quiz-section h1{ color:#8bb428; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-197941 .quiz-title{ color:#10628b; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-197941 .quiz-header-image{ text-align:right; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-197941 .quiz-section{ border-color:#ffffff; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-197941 .quiz-details, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-197941 .quiz-results, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-197941 .quiz-embed{ border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-197941 .quiz-result{ background-color:#dce4e7; } ‘Festival of the Lion King’ What animals fling from the high bar, rings, and trapeze during ''Festival of the Lion King''? Macaws Tumble Monkeys Flying Lemurs At the start the tribal celebration, which animal might you be asked to act like? Giraffe Zebra Meerkat What section of Disney's Animal Kingdom is the Harambe Theatre now located? Asia Discovery Island Africa When did ''Festival of the Lion King'' debut at the relocated Harambe Theatre? April 22, 2014 June 1, 2014 July 4, 2014 Embed Quiz on Your Website Embed Code <div class="wp-quiz" data-quiz-id="197941" data-site-url="https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog"></div> <script type="text/javascript" src="https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/wp-quizzes/js/embed.js"></script>Copy and paste above embed code where you would like the quiz to appear on your website. View the full article

With so many new (and not-so-new, but still greatly loved) dining experiences in Disney Springs, it can be tough to decide where to make your precious Advance Dining Reservations. Learn About: Paddlefish Downtown Disney Disney World Restaurants So on a recent visit to Disney Springs, I checked out Paddlefish — this time in the dining room (as opposed to the top deck bar) to get an overview of some of the menu’s most popular items. And while most of it was good, some of it was great (and one item — spoiler alert! — was just bad). Paddlefish is a brand new restaurant in an old, established building. You’ll recall that Fulton’s Crab House used to reside here, in the docked, multi-storied Empress Lily on Lake Buena Vista; and actually this spot has been a restaurant since 1977. When Paddlefish opened, guests were greeted with a combination of old and new. Neutral and trendy gray paint gave the restaurant a streamlined look, but some details of old remained, like brass railings and the fabulous sternwheel. So what do you say? Shall we paddle in? Paddlefish Atmosphere The first floor bar at Paddlefish is a beautiful space, with its curved, recessed ceiling, wall of windows, and various seating arrangements. Definitely a comfortable place to grab a drink or two! First Floor Bar Tables are also available on the second floor, which continues the industrial-meets-seafaring theme and incorporates more windows so guests can drink in aaallllll the views. T Seating Seriously. Every seat has a great view — even if you’re not right by a window. You might even catch sight of an Amphicar from The Boathouse bubbling by! Amphicar And the bright design details with white chairs and light paint help to create a breezy atmosphere. Paddlefish Dining Room Table settings feature a neutral color scheme and shiny glassware. It’s elegant without being stuffy. Paddlefish Table Setting It’s a beautiful environment in which to dine. So, let’s do this! Eats The drink menu at Paddlefish is fairly extensive. And while the seasonal Dark and Smoky is gone, guests can find plenty of options to satisfy every grown up diner. Drink Menu My friend and I wanted to give the Southern Sangria another try on this visit. The combination of Medley Bros. Bourbon, Peach Liqueur, Tempranillo, and Seasonal Fruit is as delicious as it is lovely to look at. Plus, it packed a nice punch! Southern Sangria The Prohibition Mai Tai is a refreshing combination of Scarlet Ibis, Orgeat (a sweet syrup of almond, sugar, and rose or orange flower water), Banana Liqueur, Fresh Lime, Scrappy Orleans Bitters, and an Amarena Cherry. It’s fruity, but dense, while still being strong. Prohibition Mai Tai With the drinks came some warm pull-apart bread with whipped seasoned butter. Bread The menu is pretty darn big, too, with options from sea and land. Menu I started my meal with a massive bang: Lobster Corn Dogs! The corn meal breading on the dogs has tremendous flavor, but the pepper sauce is totally killer! It’s not overly hot, but it is super flavorful. Lobster Corn Dogs In my opinion, the Lobster Corn Dogs are the best thing on the menu! My dining companion and I also tried the Crab Fries. These are Skin-on Potatoes, Lump Blue Crab, and Louie Dressing (mayo with red chili sauce, green onions, and minced green chili peppers). The dressing has a nice kick to it, and there was oodles of crab meat. It’s kind of a seafood version of poutine, which is pretty brilliant. This is a signature item for Paddlefish — you’ll see it all the time on their instagram account — and it’s good; but those lobster corn dogs are better. Crab Fries My friend ordered the Market Catch of the Day, which on this visit was Mahi Mahi. Market Catch The fish was cooked perfectly and rested on a bed of rice. The slaw on top was a fresh counterpoint to the savory components. This was my companion’s favorite dish of the day. Market Catch — Mahi Mahi The Shrimp and Grits were fine, but not outstanding. Cheddar Grits provide a pillowy base for the (noticeably few) Shrimp and a Spicy Black Pepper-Butter Sauce. The sauce was tasty, but I wouldn’t go back for this dish. Shrimp and Grits The Burger (yep, that’s the proper name) at Paddlefish is great — the best of the entrees, actually, in my opinion. Maybe it’s the Pimento Cheese. But then, you know me and pimento cheese… . The Burger The Burger is served on a beautiful Brioche Bun (I’m not the only one who thinks bread is beautiful, right?) and comes with Pickles, Red Onion, and a creamy slathering of that Pimento Cheese. The Burger The nine-ounce burger (a proprietary blend of cuts) was cooked exactly to my specifications. It was juicy, flavorful and carried the components deliciously. Seriously good. Cross-Section of The Burger We tried a side of a traditional Louisiana dish called Maque Choux. This is a warm and satisfying combination of Roasted Corn, Roasted Red Pepper, Onion, Cream, and Hot Sauce. You can’t really go wrong with those ingredients, can you? And this was tasty! Maque Choux The last savory option of the day was the side of Mac ‘n’ Cheese. Diners have raved about it ever since Paddlefish opened last year, so I figured I should give it another shot. But this was my second time trying it, and I just can’t get into it. There’s something in the five-cheese blend that does not work for me, and it’s simply not creamy and gooey enough for my liking. Mac ‘n’ Cheese Desserts at Paddlefish are hit-or-miss, so I wanted to give a fair shot to a few of them. Dessert Menu Let’s get the worst out of the way first: Charred Carrot Cake. I know, I know: I never thought I would meet a carrot cake I couldn’t love. But this one… frankly, it’s been completely underwhelming both times I’ve tried it. Charred Carrot Cake The cake itself is made with Caramelized Carrot Puree, and it’s just a block of dry, chunky… blah. The frosting is a Cream Cheese Mousse that can’t save the cake. On the side is a White Chocolate and Cream Cheese Mousse with Fried Carrots (huh?) and Shortbread Crumble. The whole thing is a hard pass. The Chocolate-Bourbon-Pecan Tart came highly recommended, but mine was dry and waaaay too smoky from the bourbon. The Bacon garnish is tasty in the Whipped Cream, but the rest didn’t work for me. (I do like the presentation, though.) Chocolate – Bourbon – Pecan Tart Even the best dessert of the night isn’t going to knock off anyone’s socks, but if you’re determined to eat dessert here, I recommend the Key Lime Pie. It’s SUPER tart, which I love. The toasted Meringue was a light partner to the rich Key Lime filling. Key Lime Pie Now you may have already seen the signature Paddlefish brownie milkshake. It’s intensely photogenic: Brownie Milkshake Like, stunning. Brownie milkshake But, again, this dessert just didn’t do it for me. I know it’s the trend to blend baked goods into your milkshake these days, but all of those brownie crumbs in there just made it feel like there was a forgotten, soggy brownie in my shake — and the texture was like having coffee grounds in your milk. Not a good thing IMO. So, I guess the Paddlefish dessert menu just isn’t for me at the moment. But, there you have it… the highlights, the lowlights, and everything in between. Nosh or Not? Make an ADR for Paddlefish (or stop into the rooftop bar without a reservation!) if: You love seafood and want to check out this iconic Disney seafood restaurant. The idea of Lobster Corn Dogs is too compelling to ignore. (Follow your instincts!) You’re drawn to the unique views of Disney Springs that Paddlefish offers and want to dine in a quietly elegant setting. Skip Paddlefish if: You’re not a big fan of seafood (though the burger is great). There are too many other new places you want to try. You would rather spend your time browsing in World of Disney than sitting for a Table Service meal. Overall Paddlefish has a lot going for it. The location can’t be beat, with sweeping views of Disney Springs and the lake. And the food is pretty good across the board (with the exception of those desserts…). If you’re looking for seafood in Disney Springs, this is still one of your best bets. But with so many other options that are outstanding (Homecomin’ fried chicken, Morimoto wagyu beef!!!), it’ll be hard for us to justify coming back more than once a year or so. What’s your favorite new Disney Springs dining experience? 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: Sneak Peek: More Food Photos from Paddlefish, Opening Soon at Disney Springs Sneak Peek: Menu Pictures from Paddlefish, Opening in Disney Springs This Fall First Look and Review: Paddlefish at Disney Springs View the full article

Katy Perry Visits Walt Disney World Resort View the full article

Hello there, friends!! We’re back with another DFB Video for this new week in the still-new year, and today we’re debunking myths about Disney dining! Almond Frangipane Cake layered with Raspberry Jam and Chocolate at Festival of the Arts Think food in Disney World is all burgers and fries? Think again… and then think about some more stuff! Because we’re taking on not just that topic, but four more myths about dining in Disney! 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: Have you heard (or debunked) any Disney dining myths when helping friends or family plan their trips? 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 Sit Down Restaurants for Kids DFB Video: Best Disney World Restaurants for Vegan and Vegetarian Food DFB Video: EVEN MORE Disney Snacks! View the full article

Now is the time to “Get More Happy” at the Disneyland Resort – and if you are a Southern California resident, you can take advantage of a special ticket offer for a limited time! The Southern California resident ticket offer* provides flexible options for two or three days of magic and adventure at special prices. For a limited time, guests may select from these purchase options, which can save Southern California residents up to 25 percent off select multi-day tickets: 2-day ticket with choice of one park per day for $159 2-day Park Hopper ticket for $204 3-day ticket with choice of one park per day for $199 3-day Park Hopper ticket for $244 These limited-time tickets are an ideal way for Southern California residents to “Get More Happy” with Star Wars experiences at Disneyland park, the return of Disney California Adventure park guest favorites Lunar New Year festival and Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, plus the first-ever Pixar Fest, a celebration of Pixar stories and characters throughout the entire Disneyland Resort. Southern California residents may purchase tickets at www.Disneyland.com/SoCal and at Disneyland Resort ticket booths. Guests who purchase tickets online may print their tickets at home. Proof of residency is required for purchase and theme park admission. With these tickets, guests may also purchase Disney MaxPass, a digital tool for guests to maximize their experience with unlimited Disney PhotoPass photo downloads and the convenience of mobile Disney FastPass while in the parks through the Disneyland App.** For restrictions, visit www.Disneyland.com/SoCal. *SoCal Resident Ticket Offer: Valid on 2-Day and 3-Day Disneyland Resort Theme Park tickets, and savings based on non-discounted price for the same ticket at the Disneyland Resort Main Entrance ticket booths. Valid only for Southern California residents within ZIP codes 90000-93599 and Northern Baja California residents within ZIP codes 21000-22999; proof of residency is required for purchase and admission. Tickets expire May 24, 2018 and are not valid before January 8, 2018. Blockout days of 3/23/18 – 4/8/18 apply. Each day of use constitutes one full day of use. May purchase up to 5 tickets per person per day with valid ID. Tickets may not be sold or transferred for commercial use and exclude activities/events separately priced. Offer may not be combined with other ticket discounts or promotions. Subject to capacity, restrictions and change without notice. **Disney MaxPass: Disney PhotoPass® Service is subject to the PhotoPass® terms and expiration policy found at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-terms-conditions/. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass® photos captured during the day your Disney MaxPass is used must be linked to your Disney account. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Guests are strongly advised to check the day’s FASTPASS® ticket availability and other Park details before purchasing Disney MaxPass as your preferred attractions may not be available at the time of purchase. FASTPASS® tickets are limited and availability is not guaranteed. FASTPASS® tickets for entertainment are not available through Disney MaxPass. Disney MaxPass is nonrefundable and is subject to restrictions and change without notice. Message, data and roaming rates may apply. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first. View the full article

There is no doubt that winter is upon us, but in only a few months springtime will arrive. With the warmer temperatures will come one of the most spectacular times at Walt Disney World Resort! From the 2018 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival to Gardens of the World, Walt Disney World Resort is where you want to be this spring. A few highlights of this year’s festival include the world-renowned Disney-themed topiaries, gorgeous garden spaces, unique and inspiring exhibits, seminars and how-to demonstrations. Everyone’s favorite outdoor kitchens will also be back offering delectable tastings. For Disney Parks Moms Panelist Priscila, the festival is one of her favorite times of the year at Walt Disney World Resort. She especially loves the convenience of being able to charge her food at the kitchens onto her magic band. “The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is my favorite special event in Walt Disney World Resort,” explains Priscila. “Beyond the amazing tastes and sips are the beautiful, Disney-themed topiaries, outdoor concert series and wildlife habitats. The Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival is truly a feast for all the senses!” Another popular event is the outdoor Garden Rocks Concert Series. A few of this years’ performers include Foghat, Rick Springfield, and Night Ranger. If your plans bring you to Walt Disney World Resort a tad bit before the spring, then make sure you check out Epcot International Festival of the Arts. From world class cuisine to live stage shows, this festival will leave you singing and no doubt full! This year Festival guests can enjoy Broadway-inspired performances of some of their favorite Disney classics. There will be jazz bands and marching bands and international acts and entertainment throughout World Showcase. View the full article

For decades, Chicago was home to daytime TV talk shows with hosts so familiar they're known by one name. View the full article

There’s a definite chill in the air across much of the country…Olaf doesn’t need his personal snow flurry in most places these days, as Winter is definitely upon us. If you’re like me, it makes me think of where I want to head on my next Disney Vacation. Maybe at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii? Or, how about a visit to a Costa Rica Tropical Rain Forest with Adventures by Disney? And, there’s nothing quite like a Disney Cruise, right? If these sound as good to you as they do to me, then this is the perfect week to be tuning in to “Wheel of Fortune.” Starting tonight, it’s the fourth annual Disney Sea & Shore Week, and you’ll get to preview all of these amazing Disney Destinations. And you can play along, as fantastic contestants solve challenging puzzles. And here’s the best part of all! Watching could even win you a pretty amazing Disney Cruise Line Vacation, as well – but, you’ll have to tune in to win! Over the past few years, Pat Sajak, Vanna White and the whole “Wheel” have traveled with us on Adventures by Disney trips, to Aulani, and on our cruise Ships – and you’ll get to experience some of those adventures during the week, too. We had a fantastic time taping these episodes at the “Wheel of Fortune” Sound Stage in Culver City, California. We wanted to share a couple of pictures, including this pretty cool behind-the-scenes shot of a slightly oversized Disney Cruise Line Life Preserver. There’s even more Disney excitement on “Wheel” this season – we’ll be sharing more on that soon. In the meantime, check your local listings for time and channel, beginning tonight. And, as always…Buy vowels! View the full article

The UCF Knights celebrated their 13-0 undefeated season with a parade down Main Street USA at Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom on Sunday, Jan. 7. View the full article

In our Disney Doodles blog series, Disney artists imagine what a character would do or see first if they had the chance to visit a Disney Park. In our first Doodle of 2018, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what the troublesome duo of Chip and Dale would do first if they had the chance to visit Disney’s Hollywood Studios. According to her, they’d likely head to one of the park’s most popular attractions – Toy Story Mania! “Chip and Dale love a friendly competition,” she said. “It’s easy to imagine them having the best time on Toy Story Mania!” View the full article

For a moment, there was a blackout at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Sunday. Droves of UCF football fans came dressed in black and gold gear to watch the football team’s Peach Bowl victory parade. Some came wearing T-shirts proclaiming the Knights are national champions and others brought black posters... View the full article

Earlier today, it was black and gold as far as the eye could see at Magic Kingdom Park as we celebrated the University of Central Florida Knights’ amazing football season with a magical parade at the Walt Disney World Resort. The parade for Orlando’s hometown team follows a January 1 victory in the Peach Bowl that capped the Knights’ undefeated 13-0 season. Along with University of Central Florida student-athletes, today’s Magic Kingdom Park celebration included UCF cheerleaders and The Marching Knights, the university’s official band. As you can see, the parade route down Main Street U.S.A was decorated in University of Central Florida colors, including black-and-gold balloons on lamp posts. And many guests wore UCF black-and-gold team shirts and jerseys to honor the team. Be sure to check back here on Monday for new video from the parade. View the full article

We’re still newly into 2018! And tradition dictates that we ring in the New Year with some bubbly. While that’s never a bad choice when the clock strike midnight, I’ve got some ideas for ways you can celebrate with a drink in Walt Disney World no matter what time of year your visit falls in 2018! These are some of the sips we most enjoyed over the past year… and can’t wait to enjoy again in 2018! Wine Slushies at Amorette’s Patisserie Did you think Amorette’s Patisserie showcased nothing more than artful cakes and pastries? Then think again. Because this Disney Springs sweet spot is home to the vino that went VIRAL in 2017: Wine Slushies! Swirled Wine Slushie — Strawberry Shiraz and Mango Moscato Choose from two fruity flavors: Strawberry Shiraz and Mango Moscato (an Apple Cider Riesling even appeared on the menu for the 2017 holiday season). Wine Slushies — Strawberry Shiraz, Swirl, and Mango Moscato Better yet, ask for a swirl of both for one of our favorite DFB hacks! Edison Signature Cocktails at The Edison Ok, so technically we didn’t enjoy these drinks until 2018, because The Edison JUST opened in Disney Springs. But the Edison Signature Cocktails have earned a spot on this list, due to the creative mixology-based menu (plus the super fun bartenders who mix them together)! We especially liked the luxurious mix of Stoli Elit Vodka, Amaro Montenegro, and sparkling Domaine Chandon with pomegranate and lemon that makes up The Mistress. The Mistress But we also want to give a nod for the feisty kick we enjoyed from the Boiler Mule, comprised of Reyka Islandic Vodka and Ancho Reyes for some spice with cider, ginger beer, and cinnamon. Boiler Mule Peruse the full menu for the Edison Signature drinks here. We’ll definitely be doing so again on our next visit to try a few more! Guava Pink Peppercorn Margarita at Choza de Margarita Though Choza de Margarita was long overdue from its originally scheduled early 2017 opening (finally making its debut in mid-November), we’ve found that it was worth the wait. And that is in no small part due to the Choza’s Guava Pink Peppercorn Margarita! Guava Pink Peppercorn Margarita Zignum Mezcal Reposado, guava nectar, grapefruit liqueur, lime juice, Peychaud’s Bitters, and pink peppercorns combine in this hand-crafted margarita. This unexpected combo is sweet, tart, and packs a punch. (Also, here’s a tip: chew one on of the peppercorns while you sip to enchance the drink’s flavors!) While we’re here , the return of the Fiesta Margarita garners a mention, too. This frozen margarita layers Classic Lime, Wild Strawberry, and Mango with more depth of flavor than its previous incarnation at the former Margarita kiosk that used to reside in Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion. Fiesta Margarita We’re so glad it’s back and even better than before! Create Your Own Beer Flight at BaseLine Tap House How about a “Choose Your Own Adventure” for your next 2018 sip? That’s exactly what you can do when you Create Your Own Beer Flight at the BaseLine Tap House, which opened in late September in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Create Your Own Beer Flight California craft ales, lagers, and a cider are among the main offerings of the Tap House (in keeping with the bar’s California setting in the new Grand Avenue section of the park), and Create Your Own Beer Flights allow you to mix and match four of your choosing. ANY Festival Slush in Epcot’s France Pavilion With the debut of the Festival of the Arts and the expansion of the Festival of the Holidays, 2017 turned Epcot into a (nearly) year-round Festival park! The France Pavilion hosts a booth at each of the four Festivals that take place throughout the year, bringing another Slush-with-a-kick to the scene every time… and they just about always make our Must-Try list for each particular Festival. France Marketplace Booth for the Epcot Food & Wine Festival Of course, Adult Slushes are by no means new to Epcot’s France Pavilion, as home to two veritable classics: the Grand Marnier Orange Slush and the Grey Goose Citron Slush. You can enjoy either (or both!) of these no matter what time of year you visit. But Spring’s Flower and Garden Festival typically brings the La Vie en Rose Frozen Slush to the Fleur de Lys Outdoor Kitchen, made with Grey Goose Vodka Orange, St. Germain Liquor, and white and red cranberry juice. La Vie en Rose Frozen Slush La Passion Martini Slush has been the offering at the France Marketplace Booth for the fall’s Food and Wine Festival, comprised of vodka, Grey Goose Le Citron, and cranberry and passion fruit juices. La Passion Martini Slush And we ADORED the Spiced Rum Punch Slush at the Alsace Holiday Kitchen, which was brand new for 2017’s Festival of the Holidays! Spiced Rum Punch Slush This frozen blend of Spiced Rum, Rhum Clement V.S.O.P., orange and pineapple juice with cinnamon is like Christmas in a glass! New for 2018, France will host L’Art du Cuisine Francaise for the Festival of the Arts. We can’t wait to stop by for the Frosé: Frozen Côtes de Provence Rosé Wine with Grey Goose Vodka and peach purée. Night Blossom at Pongu Pongu We also have a non-alcoholic sip on our list, and you’ll find it in Pandora, the newest land in Animal Kingdom which opened in May 2017. Pongu Pongu, the land’s drink station, plays host to the as-pretty-as-it-is-tasty Night Blossom. Night Blossom This frozen blend of limeade, apple, and pear puts the emphasis on the pear, which lends its unique flavor to the drink and keeps it refreshing instead of overly tart or sweet. And the passion fruit boba balls are such a fun touch! Well, hopefully that gives you an idea (or five!) for a few Disney drinks you should make a resolution to try in 2018! CHEERS!! Which of the latest Disney drinks are you most excited to try in the new 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: The Year in Review: Top Disney News Stories of 2017 Tips for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival: Grown-Up Frozen Drinks You’ve Gotta Try! News! 2018 Epcot Festival of the Arts Booth Menus View the full article

The 25th annual Walt Disney World Marathon was run Sunday, beginning and ending at Epcot. Nick Hilton of Tucson, Ariz., and Giovanna Martins of Sao Paulo, Brazil, were the overall champions. View the full article

One year to the day after he proposed to his girlfriend on top of the Contemporary Resort, Nick Hilton returned to run the Walt Disney World Marathon on Sunday. In the process, the Tucson, Ariz., resident snapped the streak of one of the 25th annual race’s best champions. Hilton became the first... View the full article

The 25th annual Walt Disney World Marathon came Sunday morning, and Brazilian Fredison Costa’s streak of four consecutive victories went. And for the first time since 2004, an American man led all finishers across the finish line of Central Florida’s largest 26.2-mile race. A month after placing... View the full article