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It’s the New Year for the entire planet, but it’s not just us who feel like there’s always something new at Walt Disney World, right? Today we bring you some seasonal and creative offerings at the Port Orleans Resort, so you can ring in 2018 as it should be — with beignets. Gingerbread Beignets, to be precise! You’ll find them (and their traditional counterparts) at the Sassagoula Floatworks at Port Orleans — French Quarter. But they’re a seasonal delight, so if you’re in the vicinity, we suggest jingling your bells in that direction ASAP. Gingerbread Beignets If you’re still in the mood for even more gingerbread, you can also pick up Gingerbread Pie at the Floatworks. It’s appropriately festive with red and green sprinkles. Gingerbread Pie You might find yourself looking for a little adult libation around this time of the year, and you’ll find a new Frozen Jack and Coke Machine at Muddy Rivers at Port Orleans — Riverside. (NEW. FROZEN. JACK. AND. COKE. MACHINE.) Jack and Coke Machine If you’re looking to celebrate the new year in the French Quarter, you’ll find lots of fun activities for the whole family, including a Cajun Campfire, a Decorate Your Own Toast Glass activity ($5), and a Midnight Masquerade that goes right up till midnight! New Years Eve Events To cater to your more creative side, Scat Cat’s at the French Quarter now offers a painting class! Painting on de Bayou The class is held on Wednesday evenings and is led by an instructor. It costs $35, but you come home with beauties like this one! So fun — and a super souvenir! Painting Sample Oh, and since the trees are still up, we have to share the decor from Riverside and French Quarter. Both resorts really bring the style this time of year! Riverside Tree Port Orleans Garland That’s it, y’all! We hope you’re having a stellar start to your new year — and that it includes at least one visit to the World! Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! The 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, is now available for Pre-Order! 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 pre-order your copy of the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2018 to save 25% today! But there’s MORE! Just like all DFB pre-order deals — when you pre-order your DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book, 2018 Edition today for 25% off the cover price, you’ll also get our fully updated 2017 Edition immediately for FREE immediately, so you can start planning TODAY! Use code WDW2018 at check-out for a 25% off the cover price, AND get the 2017 edition for free! Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What’s your Disney new year’s resolution? 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: DFB Video: Eat This at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort! News: Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Closing for Refurbishment on July 11 New DFB Video: Beignets (and the Beignet Gelato Sundae!) at Port Orleans Resort, French Quarter! View the full article

Now is the BEST time to start planning your 2018 Disney World vacation! And right now you can save BIG on any of our DFB Guides at the DFB Store, because we’ve brought our biggest sale of the year back for and end-of-the-year encore! You can save 50% off EVERYTHING at the DFB Store for just a few more days – all the DFB Guides, Bundles, and Gift Certificates – including the DFB Guide + Snacks Bundle! This popular bundle includes the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining PLUS all three of our Snack Guides! The DFB Guide + Snacks Bundle is already discounted, and today you can get even bigger savings with promo code DFB50! Looking for a special gift for the Disney fan in your life? We’ve got you covered! Our DFB Guide + Snacks Bundle Gift Certificate (or any of our other Gift Certificates) make the perfect gift year-round! It’s super easy — just purchase the gift certificate and print it off (or email it!) to give to your loved one. Click the button below to start shopping at DFBStore.com! So don’t wait! This amazing deal won’t last long. Use code DFB50 and save 50% off the DFB Guide + Snacks Bundle or any of our other DFB Guides or Bundles! Remember – everything at the DFB Store is 100% guaranteed. If you don’t love it, you get a full refund. As always, we thank you for your support of Disney Food Blog. Happy New Year! 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: BIGGEST Sale of the Year: 50% off Everything at the DFB Store! BIGGEST Sale of the Year: 50% off Everything at the DFB Store Our BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR on Disney Travel Guides! View the full article

Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World Resort for New Year’s Eve? Earlier this week, we shared all the details of what to expect at Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. We also shared photos from last year’s New Year’s Eve celebrations at Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot. The photo up top was snapped during the park’s special “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks – which will take place on both Dec. 30 and 31, beginning at 11:50 p.m. The image above was taken during the special New Year’s Eve “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” performance at Epcot, which will be held only on Dec. 31, beginning at 11:40 p.m. Have you ever visited Walt Disney World Resort for New Year’s Eve? Tell us your tips and tricks below! View the full article

It’s time again to see what’s happening around the Disney Twitter-sphere! “A Wrinkle in Time” star Storm Reid played word-association with @OhMyDisney: View the full article

This year brought new adventures and classic favorites to the Disneyland Resort. Before we welcome the new year, let’s take a look back at 2017! January 20 – Main Street Electrical Parade officially returned to the place it began – Disneyland park! This “spectacular festival pageant of nighttime magic and imagination” would go on to delight our guests through the summer. February 24 – Part of the celebration of “Beauty and the Beast” in Fantasyland at Disneyland park, the Red Rose Taverne opened, featuring delightful decor and delicious food inspired by the beloved film. March 24 – An all-new look and story was unveiled for Autopia, powered by Honda, featuring Honda’s ASIMO (Advanced Step in Innovative Mobility) humanoid robot and its new robotic friend, Bird – the first character created especially for this classic Disneyland park attraction – as they embark on the ultimate road trip. May 27 – Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! officially opened for guests at Disney California Adventure park, with stars and filmmakers from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” films joining us a few nights before for an epic grand opening celebration! July 17 – “Fantasmic!” returned to Disneyland park, continuing a 25-year tradition of this beloved nighttime spectacular. July 19 – Disney MaxPass launched at the Disneyland Resort, giving guests even more time together on their favorite attractions. July 29 – Disneyland Railroad and Rivers of America returned to Disneyland park with an enhanced adventure featuring the new Columbia Gorge section, highlighted by five picturesque waterfalls. September 27 – After more than 60 years serving up magic and memories at The Happiest Place on Earth, Carnation Café chef and longest-tenured Disney Parks cast member Oscar Martinez retired. December 6 – Cast members at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa celebrated the completion of the hotel-wide renovation. What is your favorite memory from 2017 at the Disneyland Resort? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

Happy New Year! There’s no denying that 2017 has been a year of changes, some good and some not-so-good. But when it comes to Disney food news, we have to say this year has been FULL of updates! Ready to ring in the New Year! And as we get ready to ring in the New Year with party hats, noisemakers, and a toast, we’re taking a few minutes to review some of the biggest Disney Food News stories of 2017! Let’s go! Disney Tech: Mobile Order and Minnie Vans This year Disney introduced two exciting enhancements that we absolutely love – Mobile Order and Minnie Vans! Sign directing to Regular and Mobile Order Mobile Order allows guests to pre-order and pre-pay for their food at participating Counter Service Restaurants around Disney World, making Quick Service dining a breeze! You can even order your Dole Whip via Mobile Order! See a full list of restaurants offering Mobile Order here! The Minnie Vans transportation service, operated by Lyft, gives guests an inexpensive way to travel from select resort hotels to any location on Disney World property for $20 per ride! The vans carry their own britax car seats as well — an amazing benefit for those of us with car seat-age kiddos. Right now the service is available at the Deluxe Resort hotels but we’re hoping it expands! Minnie Van Pandora – The World of Avatar Opens After years of anticipation, Pandora – The World of Avatar opened in May at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Pandora at Night Pandora Wait Times…once you actually get into Pandora…on opening day Pandora is home to two attractions — Avatar Flight of Passage and the Na’vi River Journey, the Quick Service restaurant Satu’li Canteen, and a bar — Pongu Pongu. Night Blossom and Moara Margarita at Pongu Pongu The wait times are still huge for Flight of Passage, but a visit to Pandora is always a must-do at the Animal Kingdom! Alcohol Added to the Disney Dining Plan This might be the biggest news ever for the Disney Dining Plan! This past summer we learned that for the first time ever alcohol would be included on the Disney Dining Plan! Brown Derby Lounge Margarita Flight This means that specialty beverages — including alcoholic drinks for guests 21-and-over, and milkshakes and other options for guests of any age — are available with the 2018 Disney Dining Plans. This change applies to both Quick Service and Table Service locations! See our Disney Dining Plan FAQ here! Restaurant Openings in 2017 This year was another big year of restaurant openings at Disney World – and we’re still waiting for more to open in 2018! In the beginning of the year Geyser Point Bar & Grill opened at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This new waterfront dining spot offers bar serving, table service, and quick service dining all with a gorgeous view of Bay Lake! Bison Cheeseburger and Waffle Fries at Geyser Point Bar and Grill Roaring Fork at Wilderness Lodge reopened this summer after a refurbishment, and the resort also welcomed the Boulder Ridge Villas and Copper Creek Cabins this year as part of the Disney Vacation Club expansion at the resort! Over at Disney’s Yacht Club we saw the introduction of the Ale and Compass dining concept that included The Market at Ale & Compass, the updated Ale & Compass Lounge, and the new Ale & Compass Restaurant, which replaced the Captain’s Grille. Maine Lobster Roll at Ale & Compass Restaurant Choza de Margarita finally opened in Epcot this fall and we were very excited to get to check out the new outdoor margarita bar! Margaritas at Choza de Margarita Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios we were excited for the opening of Grand Avenue and the new Baseline Tap House! This new bar serves up California wines, beer, and cider along with specialty cocktails and small bites! Create Your Own Beer Flight Disney Springs is still a hot spot for new restaurants with The Polite Pig opening in April and three new Italian restaurants PLUS The Edison opening this winter! The Edison Pizza Ponte opened just before Christmas (check out the full review here!) and we’re eagerly awaiting the opening of Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante and Enzo’s Hideaway. D23 Announcements and What’s Coming Soon to Disney Parks! The D23 Expo this past summer was full of big announcements for the Disney Parks including a new Star Wars-themed hotel coming to Disney World, a Ratatouille ride coming to Epcot’s France pavilion, AND a Mission:SPACE restaurant coming to Future World! Star Wars-themed hotel artwork Disney World is also building the Disney Skyliner transportation system that will connect Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Pop Century, Art of Animation, Epcot, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Caribbean Beach Resort Station ©Disney Speaking of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, the hotel is currently in the middle of a huge construction project, which resulted in the closure of the hotel’s restaurants and pool bar earlier this spring. A temporary dining tent is being used right now, but in the summer of 2018 the restaurants will re-open. Caribbean Beach Resort Concept Art ©Disney Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is also being updated. The hotel will add a new tower with 500 guest rooms and a rooftop restaurant! Floating gardens, new suites with concierge services, and an island oasis connected by bridges to the rest of the resort will complete the transformation. Artist’s Rendering of the New Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort © Disney The summer of 2018 is going to be big at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, because that’s when we can visit Toy Story Land! This all-new land will feature two new attractions – Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers – in addition to fan favorite Toy Story Mania. A new Quick Service restaurant, Woody’s Lunch Box, is also part of the new land. Toy Story Land ©Disney Speaking of Pixar films, Paradise Pier out at Disney California Adventure is being re-themed as Pixar Pier! This updated area will feature four neighborhoods representing Pixar films and will result in the closure of Ariel’s Grotto and the Cove Bar. Pixar Pier concept art ©Disney And what’s a year without a few rumors? Our favorite this year is that FOUR Club 33 Lounges may be opening soon at Walt Disney World! According to the rumor each theme park will get its own Club 33 Lounge! We’re definitely keeping our ears open for more details! Club 33 inside entrance And now, here are a few things that we’re looking forward to in 2018! Six Things We Can’t Wait for in 2018! Looking toward the New Year we’re really excited about several of the 2018 Festivals including the Epcot Festival of the Arts (expanded to seven days a week in 2018!), the 25th anniversary of the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, the Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival, and (of course) the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! Dark Chocolate S’mores We’re also really excited to see Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios next summer and check out the all-new Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure! And..that’s a wrap on 2017! Going to Disney World in 2018? Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! The 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, is now available for Pre-Order! 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 pre-order your copy of the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2018 to save 25% today! But there’s MORE! Just like all DFB pre-order deals — when you pre-order your DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book, 2018 Edition today for 25% off the cover price, you’ll also get our fully updated 2017 Edition immediately for FREE immediately, so you can start planning TODAY! Use code WDW2018 at check-out for a 25% off the cover price, AND get the 2017 edition for free! Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. We’d love to hear from you! What Disney food story had the biggest impact on you this year? Leave us a comment and let us know. 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 Food News Stories of 2015! DFB’s Top 10 Disney Food News Stories of 2016 The Year in Review: Top 10 Disney Food News Items of 2013! View the full article

2017 was a whirlwind year for Disney Parks Food & Beverage! From an array of new restaurants to incredible culinary creations, we have so much to celebrate. Here are just a few highlights from Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort this past year. At Walt Disney World Resort, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park celebrated the opening of Pandora – The World of Avatar. Inside this incredible immersive land sit Satu’li Canteen and Pongu Pongu, which offer some delicious items that have become must-try experiences for visitors to the Valley of Mo’ara. At Satu’li Canteen, the Build-Your-Own Bowl and the blueberry cream cheese mousse have become two of the most popular offerings. And at Pongu Pongu, the Pineapple Lumpia has been a hit among guests. At Magic Kingdom Park, Casey’s Corner introduced the popular All-Beef Hot Dog of the Month. Among the 12 hot dogs created this year, the Buffalo Chicken Hot Dog, Cheeseburger Hot Dog, and Taco Dogs were guest favorites! On the sweet side, Cheshire Café introduced Cheshire Cat Tails – delicious chocolate pastry twists decorated with purple striped icing. And over at Aloha Isle, the popular pineapple Dole Whip® was given a new “twist” and can now be served atop a delicious pineapple upside-down cake! In addition to all the new year-round items at Magic Kingdom Park, guests also enjoyed special holiday treats like the new cake push pops and the seasonal cinnamon rolls offered during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Our pastry chefs definitely outdid themselves in creating brand new offerings to make these annual holiday events even sweeter. Speaking of special events, Epcot definitely had a year to remember with the inaugural International Festival of the Arts as well as the 35th Anniversary of the opening of the park! With these events came yummy treats like the Almond Frangipane Cake from the International Festival of the Arts and returning once again for this year’s festival; and the return of the classic Handwich, a popular on-the-go snack that originally debuted in the park in late 1980’s, at this year’s International Food and Wine Festival. For the holiday season this year, Epcot introduced the International Festival of the Holidays, which showcased 15 unique Holiday Kitchens. One of the highlights of this festival was the yummy Cheese Fondue, which was found at the Bavaria Holiday Kitchen in Germany. Epcot also saw the opening of Choza de Margarita this fall in the Mexico pavilion. Sitting in the shadow of the iconic Mexico pyramid, this outdoor venue serves hand-crafted margaritas and non-alcoholic Mexican fruit punch as well as tacos and empanadas. New locations at the Walt Disney World Resort this year include BaseLine Tap House, a cheerful corner pub with small bites and California brews and wines, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios; Geyser Point Bar and Grill, a lakeside bar and grill with delicious American cuisine, at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort; and Ale & Compass Restaurant and Lounge, a signature New England gastropub, at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Over in California, Disneyland Resort had quite a year with fun new creations, holiday treats and a couple new openings. One of the most popular items this year was at Boudin Bakery at Disney California Adventure park: Groot-shaped bread! Throughout the year, the bakery offered bread in the shape of popular characters like Mickey, Mater, Groot and Darth Vader. Who know what they’ll come up with next year? Specialty churros also took center stage as guests flocked to try the sour watermelon, s’mores, pumpkin spice, and peppermint hot chocolate churros offered throughout the year at both Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park. Mint Julep Bar also got in on the fun with specialty Mickey-shaped beignets, like the Blackberry Beignets that celebrated the return of “Fantasmic!” New openings this year included Red Rose Taverne at Disneyland park. With a dash of French flair, this “Beauty and the Beast”-inspired quick-service tavern serves up unique dishes like the Enchanted Cauli-Flower Sandwich. You can even try the Grey Stuff (it’s delicious) for a fun dessert! Another popular location that opened this year is the Tomorrowland Skyline Lounge, where guests can escape the crowds and relax while enjoying desserts and spectacular fireworks. This past Spring, the popular Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival boasted over a dozen marketplaces featuring California-inspired cuisine, and will be returning in 2018 for an expanded length of time! Other amazing events this year included Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort, which introduced the spooky holiday to Cars Land with fun snacks like the Mini Candy Cone Pie; and the Holidays at Disneyland Resort brought festive treats like gingerbread man cookies, pumpkin spice bread pudding and hand-pulled candy canes! Overall, 2017 gave us tons of fun tastes and sips at the Disney Parks, and we can’t wait to see what 2018 will have in store! What were some of your favorites this year? Comment below! View the full article

In the need for some last-minute wintery treats this week? We’ve got you covered, whether you’re heading to a family gathering or looking for something for the kiddos to do on their vacation from school. Check out our top five holiday winter treat tutorials below. Olaf Candy Apple The Olaf Candy Apple is a classic granny smith apple, with caramel and white chocolate. Snowman Candy Apple The Snowman Candy Apple mixes a granny smith apple with caramel, white chocolate, marshmallow and a candy fruit stripe. Olaf Marshmallow Treat White chocolate, milk chocolate and marshmallows combine in this fun – and sweet – treat. Apple Pie Candy Apple A favorite for cast members working at the Candy Cauldron, this apple kicks apple pie up a notch. Snowflake Candy Apple No one can deny that snowflakes are simply beautiful. Our Snowflake Candy Apple, which combines a granny smith apple with white chocolate and colored sugar, is equally beautiful and delicious! View the full article

Are you spending New Year’s Eve at Magic Kingdom Park? Then you’re likely planning to stay for the countdown to midnight, which happens just seconds after the park’s special showing of “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks. “Fantasy in the Sky” features songs from some of the most beloved Disney films, including “Peter Pan,” “Pinocchio” and “Aladdin,” as well as favorite songs from attractions like “it’s a small world” and The Haunted Mansion. Be on the lookout for a special New Year’s Eve finale. Can’t be there in person? Join us for our next #DisneyParksLIVE stream of the fireworks. Read up on that here. View the full article

Brad Kaye, principal art director for Disney Parks Live Entertainment, has been a fan of the Tournament of Roses in Pasadena since he was a child growing up in Southern California. During his Disney career, he has designed two Disneyland Resort floats for the iconic Rose Parade. This year, the Tournament of Roses organization has asked him to be one of three float judges for the 129th Rose Parade on New Year’s Day. “Having watched the Rose Parade growing up, and even going with my family and friends, I always admired the design and art that went into the floats,” said Brad. “Then, having been fortunate enough to design the Disneyland Resort floats in 2006 and 2013, I really got an understanding of the craftsmanship that the amazing teams of volunteers and scene shops do to pull it all together. Now as a judge, it will be very exciting to see them all up close in the final days of assembly and really be able to applaud all the teams’ efforts.” Some of Brad’s key projects since joining Disney Parks Live Entertainment in 1998 have included parades and spectaculars such as “Under the Sea” at Tokyo DisneySea, “Block Party Bash” at Disney California Adventure park, Halloween parades for both Disneyland Paris and Hong Kong Disneyland, “Tangled” and “Aladdin” shows on Disney Cruise Line and Disney floats in Shanghai Tourism Festival parades. Brad has also designed for the professional theater community in Los Angeles and New York during the past 25 years, and has been the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement award from the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle, among many other recognitions. He designs locally at the Chance Theater in Anaheim, Calif., donating his time designing shows as well as having designed the lobby and marquee for their new venue. The 129th Rose Parade will be broadcast live, Jan. 1 on ABC, beginning at 8 a.m. PST. View the full article

It’s almost time to ring in 2018, and with the new year comes new adventures on the high seas. From the return of both Star Wars Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea, to new enhancements coming to the Disney Magic and more, you won’t want to miss all the fun to be had aboard our ships. Here are some of the highlights: Star Wars Day at Sea Star Wars Day at Sea returns on 15 special Disney Fantasy sailings from January through April 2018. The epic day-long celebration will once again transport guests to a galaxy far, far away to celebrate the legendary adventures and iconic characters from the Star Wars saga. New in 2018, Rey will take the stage in the “Summon the Force” nighttime deck show. Marvel Day at Sea Marvel Day at Sea returns during eight special Disney Magic voyages from Miami departing January through April 2018. All-day entertainment includes interactions with some of the mightiest Marvel Super Heroes and the menacing foes who oppose them, an extraordinary deck show spectacular, Marvel-themed youth activities, special merchandise and unique food and beverage offerings. Enhancements to the Disney Magic Exciting new spaces for guests of all ages are coming to the Disney Magic in March 2018. Headlining the enhancements is an enchanting dining experience for families at the new Rapunzel’s Royal Table, the first table service restaurant themed to “Tangled” that features characters and live entertainment. New Itineraries and Ports In 2018, we’ll make first-time visits to destinations in Italy and Ireland during the summer and to Bermuda and Quebec City, Canada in the fall. Throughout the year, we’ll continue to take guests to favorite destinations in the Caribbean and Bahamas, Alaska, Europe, Canada and Mexican Riviera. Halloween on the High Seas From September through October, the ships transform into a ghoulish wonderland. Our extra-spooky celebration features Halloween-themed parties, lively entertainment, unique menu items and elaborate décor, including The Pumpkin Tree, which magically transforms throughout the cruise. Very Merrytime Cruises Starting early November, we add sparkle to each ship with special holiday décor, traditional “turkey day” fanfare, Christmas feasts, “snow flurries” and New Year’s Eve galas. But the best part might just be relaxing on deck instead of shoveling snow! So, grab your passport and your loved ones and make going on a Disney cruise your New Year’s resolution! View the full article

Hey, friends! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re taking you to Disney World’s Port Orleans Resort (both Riverside and French Quarter) to let you know what you just have to eat during your visit! Beignets at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter A huge bonus for guests staying at Port Orleans Riverside or French Quarter is that they’ve got easy access to each location’s restaurants, lounges, and snacks. And since both spots have some terrific outside-the-norm options, this is great news indeed! From the Beignets at Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory to the noshes you can enjoy if you’re taking in a Yeeha Bob show at the River Roost lounge, there is a ton of great stuff to take in at Port Orleans. (And remember, Port Orleans is just a beautiful boat ride away from Disney Springs even if you aren’t staying at the Resort!) 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 thing to eat at Port Orleans Resort? Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: New DFB Video: Beignets (and the Beignet Gelato Sundae!) at Port Orleans Resort, French Quarter! News: Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Closing for Refurbishment on July 11 Review: Chocolate-Covered Mickey Mouse Brownie at Port Orleans Resort, French Quarter View the full article

If you’re on the hunt for a delicious breakfast before you begin your day at Disneyland Resort, we’ve got some new hits for you to try at White Water Snacks! White Water Snacks White Water Snacks is located at the Grand Californian Hotel and Spa, which means even if you’re not heading into the parks, you can still check it out. Atmosphere White Water Snacks features all the architectural and design details you’d expect from the Grand Californian Hotel. Wood panels cover the walls and ceiling, and wooden shingles provide added interest. Light fixtures are industrial, and you’ll even find a few evergreen trees strategically placed. White Water Snacks Table tops are plaid (cute!), surrounded by green chairs that have the feeling of patio furniture so you feel like you’ve just escaped to a well-appointed family cabin in the woods. (Except there are a lot of people in your cabin. And you do not know most of them.) White Water Snacks And while the restaurant brings the great outdoors in, there’s also some outside seating in case you prefer to enjoy your outdoors more… out of doors. Outdoor Seating Overall, it’s comfortable, laid back, and a great way to start your Disneyland day. Eats We enjoyed breakfast here a few years ago, but the menu was more standard fare: pancakes, eggs, waffles. The basics. And while you can still find some of these items on the menu (because what’s a Disney breakfast without Mickey Waffles?!), we’re happy to say that the menu now has a bit more personality! White Water Snacks Menu Our Disneyland correspondent Heather Sievers (@DiningInDisney fame!) checked it out for us on an unplanned visit. She actually attempted to get into Steakhouse 55 (which has fabulous breakfast as well — so fabulous we included it in our Perfect Disneyland Dining Day!). But they didn’t have walk-up availability, so she moseyed on over to White Water Snacks. Let’s just say she was happy with this turn of events! Check out the spread!! White Water Snacks Breakfast Spread Who’s ready to dig into ALL THIS with us? First up is the Breakfast Burrito, which is packed with Eggs, Tater Bites, Cheese, and Salsa. Super filling and tasty, AND a great option for vegetarians! And the Pico de Gallo on the side is nicely refreshing with the hot burrito. Breakfast Burrito Next up is Heather’s favorite of the day: Breakfast Tater Bites. Of course, you’ve got breakfast staples like two Fried Eggs, Cheese, and crumbled Bacon. All good. Breakfast Tater Bites BUT! Those breakfast regulars are piled on top of Tater Bites! Crispy, slightly salty, totally delicious TOTS! The Pico and Scallions add a little freshness to the awesome balance of textures and flavors. Breakfast Tater Bites We’re seeing tots all over the Disney Parks — with loaded versions on Disneyland’s River Belle Terrace secret menu and a couple of loaded versions arriving soon at Friar’s Nook at Walt Disney World. And we’re all for it. Next up at White Water Snacks is Baked Chilaquiles. That’s a pile of Tortilla Chips covered in salsa and cheese, then baked. Yes, please! Baked Chilaquiles Once heated, they’re covered in fresh Salsa (more like a pico, actually), Avocado, Scallions, Sour Cream Drizzle, and a Fried Egg. This seems like the perfect breakfast if you, umm, how shall I say… spent a little too much time with the Secret Menu at Cove Bar the night before. The Mickey Waffles are, of course, a staple at White Water Snacks. And they’re multigrain here, so you’ll notice they’re a bit darker and have some flecks of brown on the inside. Mickey Waffles They still taste great, and they’re as adorable as ever. You’ll get a side of Berry Sauce too, which amps up the plate a bit. Heather also ordered a side of nice, crispy bacon for her brood — and here’s a pic of the portion in case you’d like to know for your group. Bacon So that’s over and out from White Water Snacks, and we’re ready to hit up the parks for one more day! Nosh or Not? You’ll want to paddle into White Water Snacks if: You’re staying at the Grand Californian, and you want to grab a convenient breakfast. You dig having non-standard breakfast options on the menu in addition to crowd favorites. You want to eat your way through Disneyland without entering the parks. You might skip White Water Snacks if: You prefer to grab something quick in the park — like pastries at Jolly Holiday! You aren’t interested in spending time at the Disneyland hotels. You would rather enjoy table service breakfast at a place like Steakhouse 55. Overall Heather was pleasantly surprised by her breakfast at White Water Snacks. While it always delivers for a casual and cozy atmosphere, it’s nice to see that the small menu offers some truly creative options for breakfast! If you’re looking for a quick service breakfast that’s filling and delicious, White Water Snacks could totally be your place. What’s your breakfast style at the Disney Parks? 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: Review: Breakfast at White Water Snacks in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa Dining in Disneyland: Breakfast at White Water Snacks Review: Storytellers Cafe at Disneyland’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa View the full article

With the new year comes new attractions — eventually. The theme parks haven’t shared specific opening dates yet, but here’s a look at big projects expected to come to fruition in 2018, with a general idea of when to look for them in operation. • Infinity Falls, SeaWorld Orlando, spring: The attraction... View the full article

Big things broke onto Orlando’s attractions scene in 2017. Here are 10 memorable moments when I was happy to live where people want to play. • The premiere of Fun Spot’s Mine Blower roller coaster. The Kissimmee ride packs a lot of air time into a little space. Mind. Blown. • My first ride on Krakatau... View the full article

Throughout this month, our Disney Doodles series has focused on what different Disney characters would do or see if they had the chance to visit a Walt Disney World Resort theme park – during the holiday season. From Jack Skellington decorating Main Street, U.S.A., to Meeko enjoying gingerbread treats, Disney characters sure had fun in our Disney Doodle series this month. Check out the gallery above for a roundup of all the holiday Doodles we’ve shared this month. View the full article

Today, No. 2 Oklahoma Sooners and No. 3 Georgia Bulldogs made their first stop on the way to the 2018 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Rose Bowl Game presented by Northwestern Mutual in Pasadena, Calif., with a traditional visit to the Disneyland Resort! Before meeting on the field for the first time ever, the teams met earlier today for their first official pregame appearance, in a ceremony at Disney California Adventure park, hosted by former all-pro and host of ESPN SportsNation, Marcellus Wiley. During the ceremony, Oklahoma head coach Lincoln Riley and Georgia head coach Kirby Smart were welcomed by Disney California Adventure Vice President Patrick Finnegan in front of the rocking new attraction, Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! along with Tournament of Roses President Lance Tibbet. Representing the University of Oklahoma were tight end Mark Andrews, offensive lineman Orlando Brown, defensive end Ogbonnia Okoronkwo and defensive back Steven Parker. Representing the University of Georgia were running backs Nick Chubb and Sony Michel, offensive lineman Isaiah Wynn and linebacker Roquan Smith. After the ceremony, players and coaches from each team experienced Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and went on to enjoy even more Disneyland Resort fun. The teams will face off in the 104th Rose Bowl Game on Monday, Jan. 1, 2018. Oklahoma finished the regular season with a record of 12-1 and claimed the Big 12 Conference title, while Georgia defeated Auburn to win the SEC Championship, also finishing with a 12-1 record. View the full article

The Most Magical Place on Earth was decked out for the Holidays and was the setting for an extra special Christmas morning celebration! Un Nuevo Día, the top-rated Hispanic morning show, hosted its very first Disney Christmas television special from Magic Kingdom Park last Monday, December 25th, and it was truly a fun-filled fiesta! No gift was left unwrapped as hosts Adamari Lopez, Ana Maria Canseco, Rashel Diaz, Mauricio Mancera and Daniel Sarcos celebrated Christmas Day in true Disney fashion. The three-hour show included everything from family games, Disney friends and even a special visit from Santa himself! It was a coast-to-coast party, with special segments straight from Disneyland Resort in California that helped kick off the New Year among the Hispanic community. Surprises included guest appearances and performances by Mexican singer and actress Danna Paola, who voiced Rapunzel in the Spanish version of “Tangled”. Danna Paola was eager to pose with her rose gold Minnie Mouse ears! All of us at Disney Familia were delighted to welcome our friends from Un Nuevo Día! What was your favorite part of the show? View the full article

The annual gingerbread house competition on our ships has become one of our favorite holiday traditions at Disney Cruise Line. The pastry, bakery chefs and deck teams on each ship take pride in designing and decorating the oversized gingerbread house that greets guests when they walk into the atrium to begin their Very Merrytime Cruise. If you’ve been on one of these cruises, you know you can often smell the gingerbread house before you even see it! So, which ship’s gingerbread house took the prize this year? I’m pleased to congratulate the team on the Disney Wonder for their over-the-top creativity! Check out their masterpiece … Disney Wonder The gingerbread house on each ship is made with approximately 650 pounds of gingerbread dough, 220 pounds of icing sugar and 5,250 gingerbread bricks. That’s all in addition to pounds of candies, cookies and other fun decorations that make it unique. Of course, the teams on the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Magic also deserve a special kudos for their hard work and imagination. Take a look at their work, and may it inspire you as you make gingerbread houses with your family this holiday season. Disney Dream Disney Fantasy Disney Magic View the full article

We all love decking the halls for the holidays (okay, maybe not all of us… but many of us!). But taking all the decorations down? Admittedly, it’s nowhere near as fun. But none of us are alone. The decorations have to come down at Disney World, too. And every year, one of the first things to come down is the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House. 2017 Grand Floridian Gingerbread House Yep, while many of the Christmas trees and wreaths stick around for a few days into the New Year, the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House’s last day of operation is January 1st. So what happens when the Gingerbread House is taken down? Gingerbread House Facts First the gingerbread shingles are removed from the sets (there are 5,089 of them on the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House). Gingerbread House Presentation The sugar remains on the sets, and isn’t power washed off until the sets are taken to the Disney Tree Farm. Gingerbread House Presentation Bees then come down and eat the sugar throughout the winter months when it’s more difficult for the bees to find sources of food. Gingerbread House Presentation Gingerbread House Presentation In turn, the bees pollinate many of the flowers and other growing things you’ll see in Disney World on a future trip! You can see it all in action in this Disney Parks Channel YouTube video. So, though it’s a little sad to see all the decoration come down, this just makes us even more excited to celebrate the 20th year of the tradition of the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House in 2018! Gingerbread House Presentation Did you have a great Disney moment over the holidays? Please let us know about it 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: Grand Floridian Resort Gingerbread House News and Review: The 2017 Grand Floridian Gingerbread House — with So. Many. Treats. 2014 Grand Floridian Gingerbread House and Beach Club Gingerbread Treats View the full article

We are all delighted that our guests are getting an opportunity to observe the Sumatran tiger cubs at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and marvel at their curiosity and playfulness. Following the recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan, our team began about three years of planning for these cubs. Because there are fewer than 500 Sumatran tigers left in the wild, it’s important that we manage a population within AZA-accredited institutions to ensure they don’t become extinct in the wild. Unfortunately, extinction is a real possibility – even within our own lifetimes. We hope you will be inspired by the stories of these tigers and want to support them in the wild, too. To learn more about tigers and how you can help reverse the decline of these animals, visit DisneyAnimals.com. View the full article

New Year’s Eve is fast approaching and our team is ready to ring the new year in right – with YOU, live from Magic Kingdom Park! Our next #DisneyParksLIVE stream will take place New Year’s Eve. The fun begins at 11:45 p.m., when we’ll begin the countdown to 2018 with a special performance of “Fantasy in the Sky” fireworks live from Magic Kingdom Park. Where in the world will you watch the show from? Tell us in the comments section below or share it with us on Twitter with the hashtag #DisneyParksLIVE. View the full article

It may be the day after Christmas, but there is still time to enjoy Holidays at the Disneyland Resort! The scent of gingerbread, peppermint and evergreens fill the air. Klezmer music, Christmas carols, twinkling lights and seasonal parades create a festive atmosphere. New holiday overlays at some of your favorite Disney attractions reinvigorate the experience. There are so many ways to celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and the simple joy of family at the Happiest Place on Earth. Here are some pictures I made during recent walks. Some of my favorite holiday experiences: “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks and snowfall at Disneyland park “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade at Disneyland park The 60-foot-tall Christmas tree in Town Square at Disneyland park Haunted Mansion Holiday at Disneyland park Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle at Disneyland park “it’s a small world” Holiday at Disneyland park The “Holiday Time at Disneyland” tour (reservations required and additional fees apply) Mater’s Jingle Jamboree (especially the new Hanukkah song) at Disney California Adventure park Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl at Disney California Adventure park The Festival Foods Marketplace at Disney California Adventure park Holiday Sunset Concerts at Disney California Adventure park Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party at Disney California Adventure park “World of Color – Season of Light” at Disney California Adventure park The Coco Sneak Peek at Disney California Adventure park Gingerbread house at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa New holiday décor at Downtown Disney District Don’t miss out! Come experience Holidays at the Disneyland Resort through January 7. View the full article

Each year, thousands of guests visit Walt Disney World Resort for New Year’s Eve. This year’s offerings include special dining extravaganzas, luminous fireworks and New Year’s Eve dance parties throughout Walt Disney World Resort. Here’s how you can ring in the new year – this year – at our parks. Magic Kingdom Park Fantasy in the Sky Fireworks ­– Guests will ring in the New Year in front of Cinderella Castle with the cherished fireworks show on both Dec. 30 and 31, beginning at 11:50 p.m. (An additional showing – perfect for young kiddos – will light up the sky both nights earlier in the evening at 6:30 p.m.). New Year’s Celebration Dance Parties in Frontierland & Tomorrowland – Put on your dancing shoes and boot-scoot with a hoppin’ beat ‘til midnight in Frontierland. Or jump start the New Year with an upbeat get-together in Tomorrowland, blasting into 2018 with futuristic tunes. Magic Kingdom Park hours on Dec. 30 and 31, 2017 are 8 a.m. to 1 a.m. Epcot New Year’s Countdown Fireworks – Say “au revoir” to 2017 around World Showcase as dazzling fireworks light up the sky to welcome 2018 in a booming big way. This spectacular is held only on December 31, beginning at 11:40 p.m. New Year’s Eve Parties – A DJ dance party will have guests dancing and grooving “around the world” with special entertainment at the America Garden Stage, Future World Fountain Stage and other areas throughout the park. Just for New Year’s Eve, you can move to your own beat with music playing in your headphones at the “Silent Groove” dance party that will take place at Future World Center. New Year’s Eve Buffet Dinner – Celebrate with a lavish buffet of savory foods and decadent desserts at this ticketed buffet dinner in World Showplace. For reservations, visit disneyworld.com/holidays or call (407) WDW-DINE (3463). Epcot park hours on Dec. 31, 2017 are 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. Disney’s Hollywood Studios New Year’s Eve Dance Party – Starting at 7 p.m., guests can join in on a DJ dance party in front of the Chinese Theatre, which will come alive with special projections. The nighttime holiday show Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! will take place at 8 p.m., and finally, guests can ring in the new year at midnight with a showing of Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular. Disney’s Hollywood Studios park hours on Dec. 31, 2017 are 9 a.m. to midnight. View the full article

Hello, friends! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re checking out the best Disney World sit down restaurants for kids! Dine in a Convertible at Sci-Fi Now, a lot of people think that Disney World is just for kids… but we know the truth: Disney World is for kids and all of us kids at heart! Still, there are some dining experiences that parents especially will want to know about, as we think these are some top picks for those traveling with kiddos! Sure, we will discuss some character dining options, but we’ll also share some under-the-radar spots which those planning a trip with children might not consider at first glance. So join us to explore some of the best sit down dining for kids at Disney World! And if you love this video, there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel! By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode! So check out the video and then let us know: What is your (or your kid’s!) top choice for sit down dining 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: Best Disney World Restaurants for Vegan and Vegetarian Food DFB Video: Best to Worst Disney World Two-Credit Restaurants DFB Video: All the Mac and Cheese in Walt Disney World! View the full article