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Orlando’s major theme parks are all opening new rides this year — but the attractions are overshadowed by the buzz from bigger expansions that won’t come until at least 2019, say experts who follow the amusement-park industry. In 2018, Universal’s Fast & Furious — Supercharged opens and Disney’s... View the full article

Chef Paul Bucose — one of the most celebrated Chefs of all time — passed away on January 20, 2018, at the age of 91. Chef Paul’s passing is certainly a loss to the culinary world, but to many Disney and Epcot fans as well. Chef Bucose with Mickey at Opening of Chefs de France His accolades were many and varied: among them, Chef Paul was one of a group of chefs who pioneered modern French cooking and “nouvelle cuisine” in the 1960s and 70s. This weekend, French President Emmanual Macron paid tribute to the owner of the three Michelin star restaurant L’Auberge du Pont de Collonges, describing him as the “incarnation of French cuisine.” In the early 80s, Chef Bucose was invited by the Walt Disney Company to create restaurants for the France Pavilion in EPCOT Center. The result was Les Chefs de France, which now runs under his son, Jérôme. Les Chefs de France in Epcot His cuisine is also celebrated at the Pavilion’s Signature Restaurant, Monsieur Paul. Monsieur Paul Several of Chef Bocuse’s signature dishes have a place on the Monsieur Paul menu. Chefs de France Red Snapper And guests can enjoy the Saumon en Croute Façon Paul Bocuse at the L’Art du Cuisine Francaise Food Booth throughout the Epcot Festival of the Arts. Saumon en Croute Façon Paul Bocuse Our sympathy extends not only to the friends and family of Chef Paul Bucose, but also to the current chefs and Cast Members in Epcot’s France Pavilion who strive daily to keep his culinary legacy alive and well. Source: The New York Times and BBC.com 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! Monsieur Paul Menu in Epcot’s France News! Bistro de Paris Gets New Look and Menu; Glacier Ice Cream Parlor Added to France Pavilion Review: Monsieur Paul in Epcot’s France Pavilion View the full article

Earlier today, Minnie Mouse marked a milestone in Disney history by receiving a star on the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame in Hollywood, California, in celebration of her 90th anniversary. Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger and global pop icon and judge of ABC’s “American Idol” Katy Perry, presented the honor to Minnie Mouse in front of Hollywood’s legendary El Capitan Theatre. “Minnie Mouse has been a star and a fashion icon since she first burst onto the scene in the groundbreaking animated classic, ‘Steamboat Willie,’” Bob said. “The star of more than 70 movies during her illustrious career, Minnie has entertained millions of people around the world, touching hearts and bringing joy wherever she goes. We’re thrilled to see her cultural influence and many achievements recognized with her very own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.” In addition to her films, Minnie Mouse has also entertained millions of guests at Disney Parks around the world since the first Disney theme park – Disneyland park – opened its gates in 1955. Minnie was able to celebrate her milestone achievement earlier this week with park guests at a special “Rock the Dots”-themed send-off at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort. In it, Minnie Mouse joined her lifelong pal Mickey Mouse for a walk down a red carpet and a journey through the park on a special Minnie Mouse-themed car. A crowd of guests wearing attire inspired by Minnie’s iconic red-and-white polka dots lined up at the park to cheer them on. Before leaving for Hollywood, Minnie Mouse made one last stop over at Disney Springs to greet guests who were enjoying special “Rock the Dots” festivities in Minnie’s honor. View the full article

Moviegoers were first introduced to the Na’vi language in the film “AVATAR” and can now hear it for themselves spoken at Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Friendly cast members are on-hand throughout the land to share a the few phrases they’ve been able to pick up, but perhaps the most resounding encounter guests can expect is when they see the Na’vi Shaman of Songs at the Na’vi River Journey attraction. Paul Frommer, the creator of the Na’vi language for the “AVATAR” films, recently toured Pandora – The World of Avatar. The land wowed him, with the Floating Mountains, the level of detail on the Valley of Moara, and of course the Na’vi Shaman of Songs – were highlights. To take a look at his experience, check out the video above. View the full article

Gone are the days of vacations filled with chicken fingers and French fries. Sure those options still exist, and our Moms love the occasional Mickey shaped nugget, but if you are trying to eat healthy on your next Disney vacation, do not fear, Disney Dining has numerous options for you. First let’s talk kids. They want ice cream for dinner, but you want a healthy option before heading over to Magic Kingdom for a Dole Whip. Disney Parks Moms Panelist, Tabitha, has a suggestion to make your dining selection an easy one. “When dining with kids, look for Mickey Check meals on menus all over Walt Disney World Resort property,” she explained. “These meals meet specific guidelines that help ensure your kiddos are enjoying food that is not only tasty, but good for them, too! My kids especially love the Power Packs that are found at many Quick-Service locations, because they contain a variety of items that appeal to their picky palates.” Lauren H., could not agree more about Mickey Check meals. “I have a picky eater, but he still is usually up for trying anything with Mickey in the name. Often we are able to find grilled or roasted chicken that may look a little intimidating at first, but once it’s cut up with a side of grapes it looks like something he’s familiar with and happy to eat,” she exclaimed. Snacks Kids, and adults, can also find healthy options on food carts located throughout the parks. “My kids tend to go more for snacks and less for a sit down meal, and we can find fresh and dried fruit and fruit cups, vegetables and dip, nuts, and even dill pickles at the carts throughout the parks,” said Moms Panelist, Anna S. Kids – check. Snack – check. Now what about healthy meal options? “One of my favorite healthy meals to enjoy at Walt Disney World Resort is the Sustainable Fish Bowl at Pandora’s Satu’li Canteen. By choosing the Romaine and Kale Salad Base and keeping my Creamy Herb Sauce on the side, I incorporate more greens and veggies into my day,” said Lindsey P. “I also pay attention to portion sizes, and in my vacationing case, snacks! If I want to splurge on a Sleepy Hollow Fresh Fruit Waffle, I may make a reservation at Be Our Guest for dinner, but only indulge in my favorite French Onion Soup and a side salad instead of a three-course meal. This way, I get my favorite indulgent flavors without feeling bogged down.” “For adult meals, Walt Disney World has a variety of healthy options, including some fantastic salads. My very favorite is the Energy Salad with Roasted Chicken at Epcot’s Electric Umbrella. Also, most grab-and-go locations in the Resort hotels, as well as snack stands around the parks (like Liberty Square Market in Magic Kingdom Park) offer great healthy choices, like fresh fruit, vegetables, or hummus,” said Moms Panelist Missy F. Don’t Forget the Water We always drink water at two of our meals during the day. Water is essential for a long day at the parks! While we drink water throughout the day, we also want to be wise with what we drink when we stop for lunch or dinner,” shares Wes H. “So, our whole family will drink water for one meal, and then our kids can choose the drink of their choice for the other meal that day. (TIP: If we are not on the Dining Plan, this is also a great way to save money!)” Use My Disney Experience as a Tool “Before your trip to Walt Disney World Resort, use the Dining tab in My Disney Experience to view the menus for various dining locations within each theme park. This can help you pick out a few key locations that offer meals that will fit into your dining preferences,” said Brandy B. She added, with a large smile, “If all else fails, shove a Dole Whip in your face. It may not be exactly healthy, but you sure will feel magical afterwards.” For more dining tips or to ask questions about planning your next Disney vacation, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from our knowledgeable panel. View the full article

Taneleer Tivan is expanding his collection of rare items from across the galaxy with three new acquisitions. These Vyloos, native to the planet Berhert, may look familiar to Terrans who have seen the film, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.” Guests visiting The Collector’s Fortress at Disney California Adventure park will find these little birds to be very responsive, friendly and outgoing – responding to noises and movement – but they can also suddenly become extremely shy and introverted. They may look adorable, but beware! These little birds have been known to defend themselves when threatened, so the Tivan Group has assured us that they will be kept fully enclosed in their glass display case at all times. As long as the fortress power source remains operational, they will be safely contained. The Collector invites you to come see these new acquisitions for yourself, on display beginning this week at Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! at Disney California Adventure park! View the full article

When Splitsville opens its doors on January 29 to guests visiting at the Disneyland Resort, it will be the go-to destination for not only bowling and entertainment, but also delicious dining! The dynamic menu will include bowling alley favorites along with creative entrees and top-notch sushi. Here’s a sampling of new tasty items exclusive to the Downtown Disney District location: Macho Nachos: Loaded with seasoned ground beef, shredded cheddar jack cheese, queso, black bean corn salsa and pickled jalapenos. Nachos are then drizzled with avocado ranch and served with a side of sour cream. Chicken Thigh High Sliders: Two crispy chicken thigh sliders tossed in Asian barbecue sauce and topped with slaw. Poke Bowl: Your choice of salmon, ahi tuna or tofu with pickled radish and avocado over bamboo rice. Bowls are topped with spicy mayo, Nori threads, sesame seeds, scallions and Togarashi spice. Sweet N’ Spicy Chicken Bowl: Tempura-battered chicken, broccoli, red and green peppers are tossed in spicy Thai chili sauce and served over sushi rice. And if you’re craving classic crinkle-cut fries, burgers and pizza, you won’t be disappointed! In the hands of Splitsville’s culinary team, bowling alley mainstays will take an artisanal twist with herbed dips, premium cured meats and grinds. Are you hungry yet? View the full article

Give me an “M!” We’re giving Minnie Mouse three ch’EARs during National Polka Dot Day as she brings her spirited fashion to the Disney Sports world! Minnie made the stylish debut of her new cheerleading uniform during the grand opening of The Arena at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort, just in time to join the nearly 5,000 athletes attending the 2018 UCA & UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championships. Sporting an updated look designed with consultation of Varsity Spirit Fashion, the world’s leading producer of cheerleading and dance uniforms, Minnie’s uniform keeps true to her classic style featuring polka dots and signature bow, with multiple style options! The uniform also features a double ‘M’ on the front for Minnie Mouse and stays relevant to current cheerleading trends with the cutouts in the back. Look for Minnie at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort donning her new uniform at future cheerleading and dance events, which can be found at espnwwos.com. Follow us: Facebook: @ESPNWWOS Twitter: @ESPNWWOS
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NFL Pro Bowl Week is kicking off here at Walt Disney World Resort this week and there are several opportunities for you to get in on the fun. All of the key Pro Bowl Week activities take place at our ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and many are free and open to the public, including the team practices. The AFC and NFC teams are training Wednesday starting at 10:30 and Thursday-Saturday starting at 11:30 am. Fans can also cheer on their favorite players from the AFC and NFC as they go against each other in unique competitions at the 2018 Pro Bowl Skills Showdown. Tickets are limited – register here. In addition to watching the players practice, fans can test their own football skills the NFL Pro Bowl Experience – a free, interactive fan zone with fun activities for the whole family. Open daily at 10 a.m. starting Wednesday, the NFL Pro Bowl Experience gives fans the opportunity to get even closer to the action with new football-related activities, immersive exhibits and sponsor activations. After watching the pros, fans can get a look at the future at one of the NFL’s premier youth football events – the NFL FLAG Championships on Friday and Saturday. Fans interested in exclusive access to NFL-themed games and activities, youth football clinics and more, must register for the NFL Fan Mobile Pass. The Pro Bowl fun extends beyond the field, too. There’s a Pro Bowl Fun Run Series at the Track & Field Complex at ESPN Wide World of Sports on Saturday at 1 pm. The event features distances for runners of all ages and abilities, and participants will receive a finisher medallion, a race bib and a commemorative item, plus post-race refreshments. Runners can also expect to see some of their favorite Disney characters, Pro Bowl cheerleaders and mascots along the way. Spots are still available here. With complimentary parking at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, fans can partake in all of the exciting Pro Bowl action all week long! Fans can also head over to Disney Springs to catch the NFL Pro Bowl All-Star Pep Rally starting at 4 p.m. on Saturday, January 27. The Pep Rally will feature special entertainment, games, NFL Cheerleaders and Mascot appearances, and more! Those are just some of the many Pro Bowl Week activities here. To learn more ways to get in on the action or to purchase tickets for Sunday’s game at Camping World Stadium, visit http://www.nfl.com/probowl. View the full article

They saw dots — lots of them — today in Southern California. Minnie Mouse finally got a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The character, which was created by Walt Disney and first appeared in the film “Steamboat Willie” in 1928, follows in the footsteps of Mickey Mouse, which was given the honor... View the full article

They’re seeing dots today in Southern California. Minnie Mouse will finally get her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The character, which was created by Walt Disney and first appeared in the film “Steamboat Willie” in 1928, follows in the footsteps of Mickey Mouse, which was given the honor... View the full article

Happy Monday! And what better way to kick off your week than with another DFB Video? Today we’re checking out 5 Disney World drinks that we think you should put on your list to try in 2018! Guava Pink Peppercorn Margarita at Choza de Margarita From Epcot and Hollywood Studios to Animal Kingdom and beyond the parks in Disney Springs, we enjoyed several fun new drinks in 2017 that we totally think you need to check out on your next Disney World visit! And while plenty invite you to imbibe, we’ve also included our favorite non-alcoholic beverage on the list so everyone’s sure to have something tasty and cool to sip. Cheers to you, my friends! And if you love this video, there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel! By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode! So check out the video and then let us know: What’s your favorite drink in Disney World? 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: Things Most People Don’t Know About Walt Disney World DFB Video: Best Disney World Sit Down Restaurants for Kids DFB Video: Best Disney World Restaurants for Vegan and Vegetarian Food View the full article

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Residents Celebrate #RockTheDots View the full article

Today we’re kicking off a week on the Disney Parks Blog with this early morning photo, snapped at the koi pond at the Japan Pavilion at Epcot. This little stop is a must-see for me and my 7-year-old son, who loves to look at these fish and marvels at their size. (And, have you noticed the not-so-Hidden Mickey in the koi pond area?). Looks like they’re hungry and ready for a new day. View the full article

This week in our Disney Doodles blog series, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what Prince Naveen and Princess Tiana from “The Princess and The Frog” would do or see first if they had the chance to visit a Walt Disney World Resort theme park. According to her, their love of music may sway their taste in theme park activities. “Prince Naveen and Princess Tiana both appreciate good music,” Ashley said. “It’s easy to imagine them having the best time at Mickey’s Philharmagic, listening to popular Disney songs!” View the full article

Minnie’s Rock the Dots Sendoff Celebration View the full article

Happy National Polka Dot Day! We hope you’re keeping warm on this winter weekend! Now it’s time to kick back, relax, and catch up on another week of Disney food news! Minnie Mouse Cake Pop The 2018 Epcot Festival of the Arts kicked off January 12 and we have all the Food Booth menus and food photos! See our Best of the Fest here!! This weekend is the perfect time to #RockTheDots and get discounts at Disney World and Disneyland in honor of Minnie Mouse! It’s time to buy the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Use code WDW2018 at check-out to get 25% off the cover price! We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News Disney is celebrating #RockTheDots this weekend with discounts and more on both coasts! We reviewed new items at The Plaza Restaurant in the Magic Kingdom. Menus were announced for the Lunar New Year celebration at Disney California Adventure. We reviewed lunch AND dinner at The Edison in Disney Springs. Mickey’s Fun Wheel from the Cove Bar is now available at the Alfresco Tasting Terraces! Check out the 2018 Disney Dining Plan Restaurant List! We have a FULL review of Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar and Restaurant in Disney Springs. The dates have been announced for the 2018 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival. New DFB YouTube videos: Top 5 Disney Cruise Line Dining Secrets and the Worst Disney World Resorts. Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including menu updates, restaurant closures, special events, and more! We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go. New DFB Video: Top 5 Disney Cruise Line Dining Secrets Have you subscribed to the DFB YouTube Channel? We’ve got great content going up twice a week showcasing our adventures in Disney World and Disneyland! This week, we’re sharing our latest video – Top 5 Disney Cruise Line Dining Secrets! Check it out — and don’t forget to subscribe here. Deal of the Week: 25% off the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2018 is here and we’re celebrating the grand launch with 25% off the cover price with promo code WDW2018. What’s in the DFB Guide? The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2018 Edition is full of need-to-know details, tools, and features to make your trip go smoothly, including: A 5-Step Strategy for Disney Dining Planning, covering everything you need to know from budgeting and booking to kids’ meals, dining discounts, and fireworks. An in-depth analysis of the Disney Dining Plan and whether it’s right for YOU. A comprehensive and in-depth look at EVERY Disney World restaurant, kiosk, bar, and lounge, including our personal tips to ensure a positive and stress-free dining experience. Four free, downloadable worksheets for planning your trip. These worksheets are designed to help you execute all the steps of planning the perfect Disney dining experience. And they’re reusable for all of your future trips! Seven sample one-day dining itineraries for a head-start on planning. A comprehensive index of bars and lounges WITH reviews. An often under-appreciated option for both dining and entertainment, the e-Book devotes a whole index to the topic. The ability to be read on your mobile device or computer! It’s fully portable right in your pocket! With over 600 pages of full-color photos, tips on the best restaurants, an ENTIRE chapter on snacks — including the best snack credit values throughout the parks and resorts — and a full break-down of whether the Disney Dining Plan is worth it for your family, now’s the time to get started planning your next Disney World vacation! 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Sample Pages Here’s Just Some Of What We’ve Updated In the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book: Fully updated prices and restaurant info for 2018 visitors Updated details about available discounts and deals at Disney World restaurants DFB’s own 2018 recommendations for everything from table service to counter service to snacks and more Over 600 pages of updated Disney Dining advice, details, and information Disney Dining Plan Analysis – Is it right for your family? Can you really save money? NEW Disney food and restaurant photos Updated reviews of all Disney World restaurants, kiosks, bars, and lounges including all new eateries An updated chapter focused on one of the most popular Disney dining topics: Snacks in the theme parks and resorts A comprehensive section of What’s NEW in Disney Food, including new restaurants, new menus, restaurant closures, and more Updated information about the My Magic+ Planning System that Disney rolled out in 2013, and how it may affect your 2018 Disney plans Changes coming to Disney World in 2018 and 2019! As you can see, this is a labor of love and we put a ton of time and effort (and research) into ensuring that we are sharing with you the most relevant, up to date Disney Food Information that’s available. We do this so that you can plan your own Disney visit with confidence, and have the trip of a lifetime, every time. And right now you can save 25% off the cover price with promo code WDW2018! DFB Reader Finds If you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or around Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday. Last weekend we told you about the new Rose Gold Ears Cupcake at Epcot’s Sunshine Seasons. DFB reader Tammy Korczyk told us they enjoyed TWO of the cupcakes at her daughter’s bachelorette party! Congrats to your daughter, Tammy! ;-D The bride-to-be and her cupcake! The Croques Glaces at L’Artisans des Glaces in Epcot’s France Pavilion is a favorite snack here at DFB! And recently one of our readers, @sleanders, let us know that he tried one based on our recommendation and loved it! A great snack in Epcot’s France! Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix shared a great how-to for making Mickey Waffles! WDW for Grownups shared the best Quick Service breakfasts for 2018! Disney Parks Blog shared a recipe for Peanut Butter Blondie Bars from the Disney Fantasy. Disney Family shared a recipe for Red Velvet Minnie Mouse Cookies! Have a great week! We’ll see you back here tomorrow with another great Disney food review! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Food Post Round-up: January 14, 2018 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 10, 2016 Disney Food Post Round-Up: December 10, 2017 View the full article

You already know that Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is, well, magical. From sunrise to sunset and beyond, it’s beautiful from almost any angle. Cinderella Castle And now our icing wishes have come true (naturally!) at Gaston’s Tavern. Because when you ask for extra icing, they no longer scoop a little somethin’ somethin’ on top — they hand you a cup full of love — er, icing. Gaston’s Cinnamon Roll with Extra Icing Pardon me while I just daydream about pouring that icing directly into my mouth… Although, unless one wishes to be called a Beast, one must use a spoon, yes? Or put it on the cinnamon roll, as it’s intended. See it in action on an instagram video here! Gaston’s Cinnamon Roll No one icings like Gaston, obviously. But if you want to try your hand at his cinnamon rolls, we’ve got the recipe for ya! Are you a cinnamon roll fan? Tell us where you get your favorite at Walt Disney World! 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: #OnTheList: Cinnamon Roll at Gaston’s Tavern in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Cinnamon Roll Throw-Down: Gaston’s Tavern vs. Main Street Bakery Full Review: Gaston’s Tavern in New Fantasyland View the full article

This week on the Disney Parks Blog we’ve been celebrating all-things Rock The Dots in honor of Minnie Mouse and National Polka Dot Day, which happens to be Monday, January 22. But Minnie Mouse isn’t the only member of the Disney family who “rocks” dots – several residents of Disney’s Animal Kingdom rock “dots” and other naturally beautiful patterns 365 days a year! We recently stopped by the park to see what our giraffe, African painted dogs, cheetah and more think about National Polka Dot Day. To learn how you can celebrate National Polka Dot Day at Disney Springs and Disney’s Hollywood Studios on Sunday, January 21, check out our previous blog posts. #DisneyParksLIVE To Stream Minnie’s #RockTheDots Send-Off Celebration January 21 at 12:55 p.m. ET Minnie is Set to #RockTheDots at Disney Springs and Downtown Disney on January 22 New Minnie Mouse-Inspired Products #RockTheDots for National Polka Dot Day 2018 at Disney Parks Spotted Sweets for #RockTheDots View the full article

Discover magical fortune at Hong Kong Disneyland this year as night falls, when Main Street, U.S.A. and the Plaza are transformed into a bustling Night Market just for the Chinese New Year celebration! Stalls filled with festive delicacies and specialties will line the walkway, while Mickey and his friends visit to wish everyone prosperity in 2018. There will even be atmosphere entertainment to drum up the festive spirit. All day long, guests can also enjoy Pluto-themed decorations honoring the Year of the Dog and dine on holiday menu items across the resort. I hear Wishing Fish at the Market House Bakery are a festive start to the year – you can also find them at outdoor vending carts around the park. Dozens of new seasonal merchandise items are on sale as well, such as StellaLou in her first traditional Chinese outfit. The first five days of the Lunar New Year will bring a newly designed Year of the Dog-themed Lai See Packet for guests, which contain a chocolate gold coin and a merchandise coupon for even more good fortune. And to top things off, God of Fortune Goofy will share blessings guests at The Annex on Main Street, U.S.A. Disney friends will appear in different festive outfits day and night to offer their best wishes, including StellaLou, who will be celebrating her first Chinese New Year at Hong Kong Disneyland. Chinese New Year is only the beginning of a very exciting year at Hong Kong Disneyland! The seasonal favorite Disney Friends Springtime Carnival and the new “We Love Mickey!” Main Street Projection Show both start in March, while “Moana: A Homecoming Celebration” debuts in May as the first attraction of the ongoing multi-year expansion plan. We’re just getting started! Stay tuned for more from Hong Kong Disneyland right here on the Disney Parks Blog, and for more Chinese New Year, read about our celebrations at Shanghai Disney Resort and the Disneyland Resort. View the full article

National Popcorn Day, has inspired me to resurface one of my favorite videos we’ve shared here on the Disney Parks Blog. Originally posted by Shannon Swanson in December 2012, this video was created over the course of 12 months and features 10 of the Popcorn Animation Dolls featured on seven popcorn carts throughout Disneyland park. Read about the history of these helpful poppers in Shannon’s original story. View the full article

I have a confession to make! I have a problem. I’m addicted to Broadway shows. I’ve been known to take in five shows in a weekend trip to NYC. I know it. I own it. But I can’t help it. So the Disney on Broadway series at the Epcot International Festival of the Arts is RIGHT up my alley. The festival’s first weekend (Friday through Monday) saw Tarzan and Jane from Disney’s “Tarzan” – Jenn Gambatese and Kevin Massey – singing together for the first time in a long time. We caught up with Gambatese and Massey before a performance and they told us about the joy of interacting with fans during the Festival. The Disney on Broadway series runs each weekend of the Festival – Fridays through Mondays – with the Festival running seven days per week. This weekend Kevin will be paired with his wife Kara Lindsay. VERY exciting. Here is the rest of the series lineup: January 26-29 and February 2-5: Kissy Simmons and Alton Fitzgerald White, who will perform songs from “Tarzan,” “The Lion King,” “Aida,” “Aladdin,” and “The Little Mermaid.” February 9-12 and 16-19: Ashley Brown and Josh Strickland, who will perform songs from “Beauty and the Beast,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Tarzan,” “Mary Poppins,” “Newsies” and “Frozen.” For more information on the Festival, click over to disneyworld.com/ArtfulEpcot or call 407-WDW-DINE or 407-939-3463. And keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for updates throughout the Festival. View the full article

Starting January 22, Shanghai Disney Resort is welcoming the Year of the Dog with new limited-time entertainment and elaborate decorations in bright red and gold, bringing Chinese New Year to life for an unforgettable holiday celebration! Mickey Mouse, Pluto and their friends will be decked out in seasonal attire for festive photos on Mickey Avenue, while lucky guests are treated to special wishing cards and golden chocolate coins symbolizing good fortune. Even more wishing cards will be in the Garden of the Twelve Friends when it’s transformed into Shanghai Disneyland’s first-ever Wishing Garden for the holiday, and the Gardens of Imagination will be home to an exciting drum ceremony every morning. Over in Celebration Square, Disney characters in beautiful vintage Shanghai costumes will take part in a new high-energy performance called Shanghai Swing, inspired by the Lunar New Year and Shanghai’s historic jazz and swing traditions. On February 16, guests can also experience a traditional eye dotting ceremony at Storyteller Statue. New Chinese New Year specialties will satisfy cravings at Remy’s Patisserie and Il Paperino. For an especially unforgettable meal, guests can enjoy Wandering Moon Restaurant’s traditional family feast or Royal Banquet Hall’s special holiday dinner with items like Cinderella’s Pumpkin with Braised Pork in Soya Sauce – delicious! Even more limited-time holiday dining will be available at both resort hotels, including Lumiere’s Kitchen, Aurora, Sunnyside Café and Sunnyside Market. Sweethearts Confectionary and Marketplace in Disneytown will both be transformed into fun shopping carnivals filled with dozens of exclusive Chinese New Year gifts, including fan-favorite Lucky Bags filled with surprises. To top it off, a Chinese New Year Carnival will be held at Disneytown every weekend until February 21, including the first day until the sixth day of Lunar New Year, with live shows by Chinese folk artists, holiday treats and activities for guests of all ages. It’s bound to be an amazing Year of the Dog at Shanghai Disney Resort! We can’t wait to celebrate with you. And for those of you visiting Disneyland Resort in California, check out the Lunar New Year festival at Disney California Adventure from January 26 through February 18 with unique live entertainment, delicious food and more. View the full article

Once “it’s a small world” returns to its classic version, transitioning from “it’s a small world” Holiday, guests may notice work continuing in the promenade in front of the attraction. The location of the queue will be moved – along with other enhancements, including a new parade route entrance and stroller area – allowing guests to travel through “it’s a small world” Mall with greater ease. “it’s a small world” Mall is a popular area of Disneyland park. In addition to accessing “it’s a small world,” guests use the promenade in front of the attraction to get to Mickey’s Toontown and Fantasyland Theatre, among other offerings. The slightly adjusted parade route will make room for the attraction’s new queue, creating more space in the area. “it’s a small world” Holiday will close on Jan. 22 and “it’s a small world” will reopen on Feb. 2. The aforementioned changes are expected to complete in spring, when “Pixar Play Parade” will step off the new parade route entrance during Pixar Fest, beginning April 13. View the full article

It has been just five days since the birth of a Nile hippopotamus at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and already the newborn is garnering attention from around the world as Guests fall in love with the newest addition to the herd. For our animal care experts, the calf’s arrival has been a labor of love as they have spent months preparing for the first hippo birth at the park in 13 years. Read more about the birth here. To learn more about hippos, check out DisneyAnimals.com. We are delighted to share this short video update of the newborn calf with mom Tuma. The pair are doing well and staying close together as they bond. Guests may see Tuma and her adorable calf on Kilimanjaro Safaris day and night. Guests participating in Wild Africa Trek may also see the hippos. View the full article