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A show featuring characters from the Disney-Pixar film “Up” will be part of a new show debuting at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park next spring, the company announced Monday. Walt Disney World’s new show will be in the Caravan Theater in the park’s Anandapur village, displacing the long-standing... View the full article

A show featuring characters from the Disney-Pixar film “Up” will be part of a new show debuting at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park next spring, the company announced Monday. Walt Disney World’s new show will be in the Caravan Theater in the park’s Anandapur village, displacing the “Flights of... View the full article

Today, we’re continuing our 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas announcements with first details about an all-new show coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Spring 2018 featuring Russell and Dug from Disney•Pixar’s “UP.” Beginning just in time for the 20th anniversary of Disney’s Animal Kingdom next year, this new experience will offer guests the chance to see Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his furry friend Dug as they discover species of birds from around the world in their newest adventure at the Caravan Theater in Anandapur village. There will be “UP” close encounters each day with amazing winged creatures! As you plan ahead, we also wanted to let you know that in order to begin to prepare for the new show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, December 31, 2017 will be the final showing of Flights of Wonder. Until the end of this month, you can still experience Flights of Wonder at the park. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for future updates on the new experience with Russell and Dug from Disney•Pixar’s “UP” coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Spring 2018. View the full article

In our Disney Doodles blog series, our team of Disney artists imagine what a character would do or see first if they had the chance to visit a Disney Park. Today we’re kicking off the week on the Disney Parks Blog with a Doodle was inspired by the professional elf duo, Wayne and Lanny from “Prep & Landing.” According to artist Ashley Taylor, Santa’s top elves have everything buttoned up for the holidays – so why not take a break and enjoy the season? “Santa has very little time to himself in the month of December,” Ashley said. “It’s easy to imagine Wayne and Lanny trying to make sure he takes cocoa breaks every now and then!” View the full article

There were cheers, gasps, droid photo opportunities, casino games and more than a few standing ovations at the jam-packed world premiere of "Star Wars: The Last Jedi" Saturday night in Los Angeles, which many are already praising online. Rian Johnson, the writer and director of the eighth installment... View the full article

Happy Sunday! We hope you’re having a relaxing weekend! It’s time to kick back, relax with a cuppa tea (or hot cocoa) and catch up on this week’s food news! Floridian Pancakes The 2017 Epcot Festival of the Holidays has started and we have all the booth menus and FOOD PICTURES for EVERY Booth! The Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure is happening, too, and we have all the details, including all the booth menus and food photos! And, it’s time to pre-order the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Use code WDW2018 at check-out to get 25% off the cover price and get the current edition for FREE immediately! We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News We checked out what’s new at Disney Springs this week! Check out the limited-time holiday eats at Disney World counter service spots! The price of Disney’s Refillable Mugs has increased! Tickets are available for New Year’s Eve at The Edison! Star Wars ice cream is coming to Ample Hills Creamery at Disney’s BoardWalk! Celebrate Walt Disney’s Birthday with a special vacation offer! We reviewed the Caramel Butter Bar at Karamell-Küche in Epcot’s Germany Pavilion. We have details on The Edison three more restaurants opening at Disney Springs. Artwork has been released for the restaurants at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. The dates have been announced for the 2018 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival. Check out the performers for the Disney on Broadway Concert Series at the Epcot Festival of the Arts. Dates were announced for the 2018 WDW Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic. The 2nd Edition of The Nautilus is available at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Village. We reviewed Floridian Pancakes and a Lobster Thermidor Burger at the Grand Floridian Cafe. New DFB YouTube videos: Walt Disney World Gingerbread Displays and Nosh or Not? Food Tour of Epcot’s UK Pavilion. 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: Nosh or Not? Food Tour of Epcot’s UK Pavilion 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 Nosh or Not? video – a Food Tour of Epcot’s UK Pavilion! Check it out below — and subscribe here. Deal of the Week: Pre-Order the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining It’s time to pre-order the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2018 e-book! Pre-Order the 2018 Guide today with code WDW2018 to get this special deal!! 1. 25% OFF your pre-order purchase! And… 2. The updated 2017 2nd Edition of the Guide immediately for FREE. Just use code WDW2018 at checkout! (We’ll send the 2018 Edition directly to your inbox as soon as it’s published after the New Year.) 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 2017 Edition immediately for FREE, so you can start planning TODAY! 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! What’s in the DFB Guide? The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2018 Edition is full to overflowing with 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. 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! DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Sample Page 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. You can pre-order your copy today for 25% off the cover price and get the 2017 2nd Edition immediately for FREE!! Just use code WDW2018! The 2018 Edition will be emailed to you as soon as it’s published in early 2018. 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. If you’re visiting the Epcot Festival of the Holidays you’ll want to check out all the eats at the Holiday Kitchens. Our pal Jenn (@FairestRunOfAll) says the Mochi Cake at the Hokkaido Holiday Kitchen is a favorite! Let’s eat cake! Earlier this fall we told you about the new Dole Whip-topped Pineapple Upside Down Cake at Aloha Isle in the Magic Kingdom. DFB reader Kelly Muggs recently had a chance to check it out and she says it’s worth it! We agree! Love this treat! Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix shared tips How to Throw a Disney Christmas Party! WDW for Grownups shared why they love Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Disney Parks Blog shared a recipe for Peanut Butter Blondie Bars from Sweet On You. Disney Family shared a recipe for Mickey Mouse Gingerbread 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: December 3, 2017 Disney Food Post Round-up: November 26, 2017 Disney Food Post Round-Up: September 24, 2017 View the full article

When the Epcot International Festival of the Arts returns this January, Guests will discover world-class cuisine, remarkable visual art and an extraordinary lineup of live entertainment. For Megan Kenney, associate merchandiser for events at Disney Parks Merchandise, this festival marks the release of the first merchandise collection she developed for a Walt Disney World event. Her “mouse-terpiece” assortment is filled with brightly colored souvenirs that celebrate 39 days of creativity from January 12 – February 19 at Epcot. “Creating merchandise is like putting together a puzzle. From partnering with artists to identifying the latest product trends, each piece plays an important role,” said Kenney who enjoyed the experience of bringing these products to life since joining the merchandise events team last summer. This year’s expanded assortment has familiar fan favorites, such as apparel, pins, and drinkware, mixed with never-before-offered items including a four-card note set and a zip case. Multi-colored silhouettes of Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Rafiki adorn many products. Guests visiting Epcot will see this same artwork on banners and displays throughout the Festival. “All products include the event logo as we know Guests like souvenirs that remind them of experiences at Disney Parks,” continued Kenney. Figment, the lovable purple from the Journey into Imagination attraction, returns to this year’s merchandise. Look for him on limited edition pins inspired by some of most iconic works of art including Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” and Monet’s “Water Lilies.” Passholders will spot him on specially designed apparel, drinkware, and a limited edition pin. These event products and more will be offered in select merchandise locations throughout Epcot during the event. Festivities will run seven days a week in 2018 with Disney On Broadway performances happening each weekend (Fridays through Mondays). For more information on the Festival, click over to DisneyWorld.com/ArtfulEpcot. View the full article

Returning to Epcot for a second year, the Epcot International Festival of the Arts will celebrate all things art – performing, visual and culinary – from January 12 – February 19 – with festivities running seven days a week and Disney On Broadway performances happening each weekend (Fridays through Mondays) in 2018. Last year, the Disney On Broadway series was a highlight of the festival for many guests. We’re happy to share a first look at the lineup of Broadway artists set to take the America Gardens Theatre stage this year. January 12-15 and 19-22: Kara Lindsay (NEW!) and Kevin Massey, who will perform songs from “Tarzan,” “Aladdin,” “Newsies” and “Frozen.” 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.” All Disney on Broadway shows are included in theme park admission and will take place Fridays through Mondays at 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. One of the best ways to experience Disney on Broadway is through a dining package. Guests can book a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner, and later enjoy priority seating at the show. For more information on the Festival, click over to www.disneyworld.com/ArtfulEpcot or call 407-WDW-DINE or 407-939-3463. * Disney on Broadway Dining Packages are available for breakfast, lunch and/or dinner and include a 3-course meal or full buffet, depending on the location. View the full article

This week, we launched our first-ever 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas featuring daily updates on new offerings coming to Walt Disney Parks & Resorts in 2018 and beyond. We kicked things off with an exciting update that Pixar Play Parade will bring even more of your favorite Pixar stories to life with the addition of three new story elements when it returns April 13 to the Disneyland Resort as part of the limited-time Pixar Fest celebration. Check Erin’s story for details. We continued our announcements with new colorful details about enhancements debuting late this summer at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort at Walt Disney World along with updates that the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival is expanding to six weeks in 2018 and Shanghai Disneyland is expanding on April 26 with the opening of Disney Toy Story Land. And we moved into the weekend with new images and details about the Disney Skyliner transportation system that’ll give you an unforgettable journey and a picturesque view of the Walt Disney World Resort. Visit Jenn’s story for more images and information. Our next 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas announcement is later today. Be sure to keep checking the Disney Parks Blog each day at 11 a.m. through December 16 for more exciting updates. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Spread Holiday Cheer, #ShareYourEars to Support Make-A-Wish – Grab a camera! This holiday season, Disney Parks is donating $5 to Make-A-Wish®, up to $1 million, for each photo you take and share on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram wearing “Mickey Ears” – or any fun, creative ears – with the hashtag #ShareYourEars. New Dining, Retail and Family-Friendly Entertainment Coming to Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort in Early 2018 – Lots of exciting changes are arriving at Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort in early 2018! With new dining and entertainment experiences, here’s a peek at what to expect at the beginning of next year. Best of the Holidays at Disney Parks Featured in New ‘Inside Disney Parks’ – We’re wrapping our “Inside Disney Parks” show series for 2017 with a special Disney Parks holiday guide you’re not going to want to miss. This episode, we go behind the scenes at the popular “Candlelight Processional” at Epcot before taking a look at the holidays around Disney Parks and highlighting some of the season’s must-have Disney gifts. New Hotel-Wide Magic Unveiled at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort – Last week, cast members at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort celebrated the completion of the hotel-wide renovation. Guests can now enjoy completely redesigned guest rooms plus a refreshed lobby, pool area and concierge-level lounge! New Venues from Patina Restaurant Group, Including The Edison and Maria & Enzo’s, Take Their Place in the Disney Springs Story – When The Edison, a lavish industrial Gothic-style destination for fine food, handcrafted cocktails and exciting nightlife was announced as a future Disney Springs destination, guests were giddy with anticipation. More recently, three additional food and beverages venues – Maria & Enzo’s, Enzo’s Hideaway and Pizza Ponte – have given us a trio of new reasons to get excited about the food and beverage scene at Disney Springs. Celebrate Star Wars Galactic Nights With New Merchandise & More on December 16 – Star Wars fans from across the galaxy are making plans to attend this year’s Star Wars: Galactic Nights event, which will be held at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on December 16. View the full article

Christmas is coming, the goose is getting fat! Please put these gifts under my tree! (We know it doesn’t rhyme, but we have to go with our hearts, y’all!) Here are some Disney-fied items that we want, want, want this year! Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Woodland Tote The Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Woodland Tote by Loungefly is so stinking cute! But what we appreciate most is that it’s in classic red, so it’s perfect for grown up Disney fans! It’s subtle, stunning, and the color combinations are super interesting. Mickey Mouse Icon Dinner Plate Set Now, this one we are seriously considering buying for ourselves because ne’er a sweeter Christmas dinner shall be seen than one served on these Mickey Mouse Icon Dinner Plates! The design is iconic Mickey Mouse without being cutesy. And the Mickey impressions around the outside of the plates are subtle but still manage to show our Disney side! Mickey Mouse and Friends Pajama Set (for Kids) Our only complaint on this one is that they’re only sized for kids — otherwise we love everything about these Mickey Mouse and Friends PJs! The blue background is nice and bright, and they’re FULL of Mickey and his pals! Christmas morning pics perfection! Star Wars R2-D2 Coffee Press Some of us (*ahem*) struggle to get going in the morning, but making your morning coffee has never, ever been so invigorating. It’s an R2-D2 Coffee Press! And if you’re entertaining folks for the holidays, what a terrific conversation piece! Seriously, the folks of the world who design Disney-related merchandise are geniuses. It’s time, friends! Buy for your family and friends — or buy for yourself. Because the only thing better than the act of giving is the act of giving totally awesome Disney gifts! Shopping for the kiddos? Check out a great HOT DISNEY TOYS 2017 GIFT GUIDE HERE! Are you ready for the holidays? Let us know how you’re incorporating your Disney love during this festive season! 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: Bring Disney Home for the Holidays! Disney Holiday Preview: Christmas Traditions and Delicious Finds in Epcot’s UK Pavilion Best Restaurants for Thanksgiving and Christmas in Walt Disney World View the full article

Moana’s travels take her to many exciting destinations – and one of her favorites is Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa. Starting today, guests can visit with the Disney heroine during a new premium experience! During “Kakamora Chaos with Moana” at Aunty’s Beach House, Moana is eager to learn more about her new friends, especially the games they play. During the interactive 90-minute experience, young guests will learn to play children’s games from Hawai‘i, as well as a game from Moana’s home island of Motunui: the Kakamora Relay!* There are other fun ways to see Moana during her visits to Aulani Resort. Guests can join Moana and Aulani Resort’s beloved storyteller “Uncle” as they share the importance of the canoe—or wa‘a—during Kahakai Canoe Racing. The interactive activity concludes after building a canoe model and racing in the lagoon! In the evenings, resort guests may choose to wind down around the fire pit as Moana and Uncle recount tales of adventure during Mo‘olelo Firepit Storytelling. Guests attending the the resort’s KA WA‘A lū‘au will also be delighted when Moana makes a special appearance during the lively pre-show, which pays homage to the incredible journey the Hawaiian people made across the ocean. *Advance reservations for Kakamora Chaos with Moana is strongly recommended. Please call the Reservation Center at (808) 674-6200. Premium experience at additional charge. View the full article

Here at Walt Disney World Resort, toys are on our mind. That may be because we are preparing for the opening of Toy Story Land next summer at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Or perhaps it’s because our Cast Members went to infinity and beyond to help some 26,000 children in our community this holiday season through the U.S. Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots program. Today, we packed up a few distinctly Disney vehicles from our Minnie Van service and delivered THOUSANDS of toys to help pack the shelves of the Toys for Tots distribution warehouse. We brought donated games, dolls, plush animals and other surprises. During the past month, Cast Members have donated more than 25,000 toys—that’s more than three tons!—to this program. And in the coming weeks, Disney VoluntEARS will help the Marines sort and distribute the toys to deserving families, a continuation of nearly seven decades of support to the program that dates back to Walt Disney himself. There’s no denying the holiday season holds extra magic when viewed through the eyes of a child… or a toy. I love knowing these gifts will be part of holiday memories for the girls and boys in our community for years to come., and hope that every child finds a gift with their name on it this holiday season. View the full article

This week, some of the best images we shared on the Disney Parks Blog are of the delightful seasonal treats guests can find throughout Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort. This time of year, Disney Springs locations offer a bevy of candy apples, dome cakes, chocolate treats – and of course, Christmas cookies! Click through our Instagram gallery above of the treats you can find this time of year. Which looks best to you? Tell us in the comments section below. View the full article

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Season’s Greetings! It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, and if you’re bound for Walt Disney World, it’s even better. That’s because there is no more festive spot on earth to celebrate all of the heartwarming fun of the the season. And we don’t want you to miss out on any of the top attractions. So let’s take a look our list of the 27 Must-do Disney Holiday Events — and Eats! — to celebrate this season at Walt Disney World! Take Advantage of a Candlelight Processional Package There are lots of ways to observe the holidays throughout Walt Disney World, but one of the most beloved is the Candlelight Processional at Epcot. This special holiday show is performed nightly through December 30. Celebrity Narrators recount the traditional holiday story, while a choir and orchestra perform beloved Christmas carols. Narrators for this year include Kurt Russell (December 9-10), Warwick Davis (December 12-14), Neil Patrick Harris (December 18-21), and Chandra Wilson (December 28-30). Check out the full list here. Conducting the Choir The event draws big — I mean, HUGE — crowds during the three nightly performances. You can catch most of the action from the Promenade behind the American Gardens Theater. Neil Patrick Harris Narrating the Candlelight Processional But if a seat is important to you, definitely take advantage of the Candlelight Processional Packages. For the price of a meal at participating Epcot restaurants, you get reserved seating for the Candlelight Processional as well. Chefs de France in the France Pavilion, Decked Out for the Holidays You can book the package for Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner, and have the comfort of knowing that your Candlelight Processional seat is guaranteed. Don’t Forget To Watch the DFB’s Top 5 Must-Dos for The Holidays in Disney World! Attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party If your Disney trip coincides with the holidays, then Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is an absolute MUST on your list! Snow on Main Street at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party This special after hours event, held at Magic Kingdom select nights from 7:00PM until midnight, offers lots of special ways to get into the spirit of the season. Special Character Meet and Greets throughout the Park give you facetime with rare characters decked out in their holiday finest. You’ll also enjoy special performances on stages set up throughout the park and SNOW on Main Street USA! Toy Soldiers During the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade! Kick off your evening with your Frozen favorites, Anna, Elsa, Sven, and Olaf, as they appear in A Frozen Holiday Wish. Elsa wraps up the performance by transforming Cinderella Castle into an enchanted ice palace! (But keep in mind — you can enjoy this special event with or without admission to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.) Frozen Holiday Wish And don’t forget the special Holiday Wishes Fireworks Spectacular! This special fireworks display is only available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party until the event comes to a close. After that time everyone can enjoy it! Book Minnie’s Holiday and Dine Dinner Looking for a special meal to kick off the seasonal celebration? Check out Minnie’s Holiday and Dine Dinner at Hollywood & Vine in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Seeing some of our favorite characters decked out for the holidays in brand new gear is a real treat. Minnie Mouse Mickey Mouse But the food! We found several dishes worthy of the special occasion as well. And with Minnie’s Seasonal Dining changing with the seasons, we can’t wait to see what comes next! Engage in a Little Gingerbread Hopping The first appearance of Gingerbread is a sure sign that Christmas and other winter holidays are just around the corner. And displays featuring this traditional confection at Disney Resorts are not to be missed. 2017 Grand Floridian Gingerbread House Because we are not talking about your grandmother’s gingerbread house here. These are life-sized displays, and more than once, I’ve been tempted to sidle up and break off a piece of shingle, Hansel and Gretel-like, and start snacking. (Good thing I can just buy one!) Classic Gingerbread Shingle Whether you fancy the Mary Blair-meets-Cinderella display at the Contemporary, the Carousel at the Beach Club Resort, or my favorite, the huge gingerbread house at the Grand Floridian, be sure to make some time for these masterpieces during your visit. 2017 Contemporary Resort Gingerbread Display And don’t forget to look for special holiday Hidden Mickeys and holiday character meet and greet opportunities at the resorts! Add to Your Popcorn Bucket Collection Disney fans are world-class collectors of awesome, and Holiday Popcorn Buckets are right at the top of the list! Pluto Popcorn Bucket 2017 Happy Holidays Popcorn Bucket Always whimsical, it’s fun to see what they come up with from year to year — and totally worth making space in your suitcase for the empty vessel! Drink Around the World During Epcot’s Festival of the Holidays Just when you didn’t think that Disney could become anymore delicious, the holidays arrive. And with them, there are plenty of special drinks to enjoy. Epcot International Festival of the Holidays Some of my favorites can be found around World Showcase during Epcot’s Festival of the Holidays (taking place November 19-December 30, 2018!). After all, it just wouldn’t be Christmas time without a Spiced Rum Punch Slush from the Alsace Holiday Kitchen in France, a Frozen Kahlua Coffee Margarita at Los Posadas Holiday Kitchen in Mexico, or the Andalusian “Pointsettia” Cocktail at Tarabaki Holiday Kitchen in Morocco. Spiced Rum Punch Slush Frozen Kahlua Coffee Margarita Andalusian Poinsettia Cocktail We also love the Shipyard Candy Cane Coffee Porter at Holiday Sweets and Treats! Shipyard Candy Cane Coffee Porter Enjoy the World Showcase Storytellers But there are more than just great drinks (and eats) happening at the Epcot Festival of the Holidays. Be sure to time your stroll on the Promenade just right so that you can take in all of the World Showcase Storytellers! Père Noël Sharing French Christmas Traditions You’ll hear plenty of Christmas stories, but you’ll also learn about other customs celebrated throughout the world at this time of year. Celebrating the Spice of Life in the Morocco Pavilion Be sure to catch them all! Celebrate the Holidays at Liberty Tree Tavern Holiday meals are a special time to celebrate with family and friends. They love this traditional feast so much at Liberty Tree Tavern that it’s available all year ’round during both lunch and dinner! Liberty Tree Tavern at Magic Kingdom Pilgrim’s Feast for Lunch at Liberty Tree Tavern Want to make the holiday extra special? Book your Thanksgiving feast here, as you soak in the early-American Colonial vibe! See the New Year’s Eve Fireworks If it’s not on your Disney Bucket List, I think it should be. I’m talking about spending New Year’s Eve in Walt Disney World! Expect Huge Crowds and Stunning Fireworks on New Year’s Eve The parks pull out all the stops on this night that’s just made for partying. Be sure to take your power nap in the afternoon so that you can stay up late for the extra special New Year’s Eve Fireworks displays! Read a review from the DFB Team about dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table for New Year’s Eve! The Clock Strikes Twelve Dessert Check out the Train Display in the Germany Pavilion for Festive Decorations Who can resist checking out the toy train display in Epcot’s Germany Pavilion? It doesn’t matter how many times I visit the park, I always have to stop here, especially during the the holidays, when the town square is decked out for the occasion! Check Out the Holiday Decorations in the Germany Pavilion’s Train Town Square! I always look forward to the time when Christmas comes to miniature Germany! Personalize Your Ornament at Disney Days of Christmas True, it’s Christmas 365 days a year if you happen to visit Disney Days of Christmas at Disney Springs. But during the holidays, you have to make a pilgrimage here for the best souvenir of all — a personalized ornament! Liberty Square Decorations in Magic Kingdom No time for a trip to Disney Springs? Stop by Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe in Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square instead. Christmas Cookie Ornament Attend the Disney Parks Holiday Specials Tapings! Both Walt Disney World and Disneyland actually tape their Holiday Specials and parades well before the actual holiday. Magic Kingdom Holidays In the past, taping has taken place the first weekend in December, but for the past two years, it was taped in early- to mid-November! So if this is something that you’d love to be a part of, be sure to keep a sharp eye out for when the date is announced in 2018. Magic Kingdom Holidays While it may compromise some of the magic, it’s pretty fun to catch a glimpse of yourself on the special! Take a Jingle Cruise A couple of years ago, those enterprising Jungle Cruise Skippers became a little nostalgic for Christmas celebrations — and the Jingle Cruise was born! Take a Jingle Cruise! Don’t Lose Your Head Though! :-) If you love the Jungle Cruise anyway, be sure to book your FastPass for this holiday version — complete with corny jokes and extra fun holiday decor. Grab a Spot for Mickey’s Once Upon a Time Christmastime Parade Who can resist life-sized Dancing Gingerbread and marching Toy Soldiers come to life? Once Upon a Christmastime Parade This special holiday parade, which takes place during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, features favorite characters on specially themed floats as well. Look for Santa during the parade’s grand finale! Santa Claus! Like Holiday Wishes, you can only enjoy this special parade during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party through December 22. The parade is performed daily December 22-31 for the Magic Kingdom general public. And Don’t Forget the Can’t-Miss Holiday Snacks Some of our favorite Disney snacks of all time only make an appearance once a year. And that’s now! Be sure to keep an eye out for extra special sweet, like this Red Velvet Christmas Tree-Shaped Whoopie Pie at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Red Velvet Christmas Tree Whoopie Pie There’s a flurry of new eats at the Studios this year! This Olaf Sundae is another favorite! Olaf Sundae There’s no shortage of treats at Magic Kingdom as well. This Peppermint Sundae at Plaza Ice Cream Parlor is always a favorite. Check out our review of ALL the treats at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! Peppermint Sundae at Plaza Ice Cream Parlor But you can’t forget about Epcot. Make some space on the snack list for amazing eats like Pecan Maple Bark from the Canada Pavilion. It’s one of my favorites. (Here’s the recipe if you’d like to make it at home!) Pecan Maple Bark And if you’re in the mood for cookies, be sure to stop by The Cookie Nook Holiday Kitchen in Epcot! Cookies! And don’t forget to pick up a gingerbread treat from one of the resorts! Observe the Epcot Tree Lighting Every night at 6:00PM, a Tree Lighting takes place in Epcot’s World Showcase Plaza. Epcot Christmas Tree The theme of the Epcot tree is once again Peace on Earth. Epcot Tree — Peace Angel Don’t miss this beautiful spectacle. Find Carolers and Sing Along If singing Christmas Carols is a rite of passage for you during the holidays, have no fear — you’ll find Carolers in different spots throughout Walt Disney World. And you should totally join in with the singing! In Epcot, look for the Voices of Liberty to don Victorian garb and transform into Dickens Carolers. Dickens Carolers Sing for Guests Find them in the American Adventure Pavilion. Animal Kingdom also features carolers singing holiday classics near the tree at the park’s entrance. Carolers also make regular appearances throughout the resorts and at Disney Springs. Book a Special Holiday Tour Special Holiday Tours are also a great way to add magic to your visit. Because the tours are usually limited to a small group, they have a much more personal feel to them than many of the other events. Learn All About What Goes Into Disney’s Beautiful Holiday Displays Tours like the Holiday D-Lights tour and Yuletide Fantasy take you behind the scenes to learn all about how Disney transforms for the holidays — plus you’ll get to take in some of Disney World’s most popular holiday events with your own personal guide. Decorate Christmas Cookies What is Christmas without decorating a cookie or two? Many resorts throughout Walt Disney World offer younger guests the chance to decorate their own cookies. Decorating Gingerbread Men is a Must! Look for tables set up in the lobby, or check with your concierge desk for more information. Check Out the Christmas Eve Golf Cart Parade One of our favorite pastimes during the holidays is a trip to Ft. Wilderness Resort and Campground to see the campsite decorations. Guests of this resort go the extra mile to celebrate the season. Christmas Eve Golf Cart Parade at Ft. Wilderness If you plan your visit for Christmas Eve, be sure to stick around for the traditional Golf Cart Parade, when guests deck out their golf carts in all manner of festive decor! Take a Sleigh, Wagon, or Carriage Ride While you’re at Ft. Wilderness, take the opportunity to catch a Sleigh or Wagon Ride. Yep — that’s right. Through the magic of Disney, you can ride in a sleigh in Florida! Wagon rides are also available, and are a bit easier on the budget. Take a Sleigh Ride! If you have your heart set on taking a Carriage Ride instead, you’ll want to head over to Port Orleans Riverside Resort for this charming old world experience. Learn a Few Gingerbread House How-Tos Are visiting Gingerbread displays and eating the yummy treats on your list of to-dos? Well, don’t stop there. Attend the Gingerbread Academy at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn to get some great tips on building your own masterpiece. Gingerbread Academy Go even deeper with Gingerbread School at the Ritz Carlton, where families can build their house and take it with them. Enjoy Some Roasted Chestnuts Does your holiday dreaming often include Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire? For the epitome of holiday tradition, head to the Grand Floridian, where the resort serves up complimentary tastings of Roasted Chestnuts to guests. You’ll find roasters set up near the Porte Cochere right outside the lobby. Jingle Bell! Jingle BAM! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Jingle Bell! Jingle BAM! is festive and fun nighttime projection show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a must for the holidays! Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! The show centers around a search-and-rescue mission starring Wayne and Lanny from Prep and Landing and features projections, fireworks, and sparkly snow! There’s also a dessert party pairing a reserved viewing area with holiday-themed food and drink. Multiple food stations will offer holiday sweets and snacks! Sunset Seasons Greetings Falling snow, twinkling lights, moving billboards, and festive projections on the Hollywood Tower Hotel all make for the magical transformation of Sunset Boulevard into Sunset Seasons Greetings! Sunset Boulevard Stroll onto Sunset Boulevard after dark and catch the two-minute stories on the moving billboards, featuring festive moments with Disney characters like Mickey and his family in Mickey’s Christmas Carol or the gang from Toy Story! And the Tower of Terror is more festive and less scary – at least on the outside! Projections on the Hollywood Tower Hotel Christmas Tree Trail at Disney Springs Disney Springs has decorated 25 trees this year with different Disney themes and the Christmas Tree Trail is a must-do for the holidays! Alice in Wonderland Tree And Finally…See Santa! And finally, it just isn’t Christmas without a visit with the man himself! If seeing Santa Claus during the holidays tops your list, then you have plenty of options. See Santa Goofy at Minnie’s Holiday and Dine! As we’ve mentioned, Santa makes regular appearances at the end of Mickey’s Once Upon a Time Christmastime Parade. You can also meet with Santa and Mrs. Claus in the American Adventure Pavilion during Epcot’s Holidays Around the World. Santa and Mrs. Claus in Epcot’s American Adventure Pavilion He also makes appearances at Magic Kingdom near City Hall from late November through Christmas. Finally, catch him at Disney Springs and the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin as well! And you can meet Santa Goofy at Disney Springs and Disney’s Hollywood Studios on select days after December 24! Got a Disney World Trip Planned for December? CHECK THIS OUT! The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2017 is a one-of-a-kind resource that will help you get the most out of your holiday vacation at Walt Disney World. It includes over 400 pages of must-have information, including: A full What’s New!! chapter for the 2017 Holiday Season A full Monthly Schedule of Events for the Holiday Season How to avoid the crowds on Disney World’s busiest days (and when Disney World closes their parks due to capacity!) ALL of the events, activities, and holiday additions in Walt Disney World. ALL. OF. THEM. And of course we’ll tell you where to eat! ;-D Order your 2017 Guide now and get 20% off with code PEPPERMINT! As always, our e-Books are 100% guaranteed! If you don’t love it, you get your money back! What events, treats, or meals make your Disney Holiday Must-Do List? Leave a comment and share your favorite with us! 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: 25 Must-Do Disney World Holiday Events — and Eats! DFB Video: Five Must-Do Holiday Events in Walt Disney World News: Limited Time HOLIDAY EATS at Counter Service Spots in Disney World View the full article

With so many dining options to try at Walt Disney World, it’s not every trip that I’m able to return to some classic Resort restaurants — particularly if I’m not staying at the Resort in question. Learn About: Grand Floridian Cafe Grand Floridian Disney World Restaurants But on a recent visit, I had a meeting that was (thankfully!) at the Grand Floridian Cafe. Located off the lobby in the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa’s main building, the Grand Floridian Cafe offers lovely views of the rose garden and courtyard pool beyond. It’s nice and tranquil, but not at all stuffy. So if you want to check out the Grand Floridian with your entire crew (including kiddos), this is a great place to try it. The Cafe menu serves up traditional American dishes with a few nods to seafood and Southern fare in celebration of the Sunshine State, and our most recent trip here was for dinner. But a great feature at the Grand Floridian Cafe is the brunch-style menu offering breakfast dishes (in addition to the lunch offerings) through 2:00 pm. Hence the “Pancakes and Burger” mashup we’re reviewing today! And there’s another big boon for the Grand Floridian Cafe: since it’s on the Resort Monorail loop, it’s easily accessible from Magic Kingdom and a terrific get-away if you need a little break from the park. Atmosphere Like every restaurant at the Grand Floridian, the Cafe is simple and elegant. You won’t find over-the-top, Disney-fied theming in terms of characters or bright colors. But you will feel as though you’ve gone back to the Victorian Era (minus all the stiff social constructs). Check in takes place at a desk with white columns and great trim details. Grand Floridian Cafe Entrance Right away you’ll notice the lattice-and-flowers carpeting, which carries throughout the restaurant. The wood trim also continues into the dining room, where floral wallpaper and tasteful seating await. Table Seating Simple place settings and a single flower in a vase are ready to greet you. Table Seating See? Table Flower Another classic, lovely touch in an airy, peaceful setting. So settle in and relax as we peruse the menu! Eats Here’s a look at that breakfast-meets-lunch menu. It’s available through 2:00 pm when the Cafe closes for a few hours before reopening for dinner at 5:00 pm. The menu offers everything from the quintessential Mickey Waffle to Miso-Glazed Salmon. And if you can’t decide between breakfast and lunch, there are always items like the Bacon and Egg Salad to have a little of both. Grand Floridian Cafe Menu There’s also an extensive beverage menu, with non-alcoholic mocktails, hot coffee and tea, wine, and specialty cocktails. Grand Floridian Cafe Beverage Menu Let’s start out with one of those breakfast offerings, shall we? The Floridian Pancakes came highly recommended by some of my Disney food friends and readers, and I’ll tell you right from the get-go that they did not disappoint. Three huge Pancakes are topped with Roasted Pecans, Sun-dried Cranberries, and House-made Orange Butter, along with several Mandarin Orange Slices and Maple Syrup. You’ll also get your choice of Bacon or Sausage. Floridian Pancakes I’m not exaggerating when I say these are totally epic. The rich, heavy maple flavor was brightened nicely by the citrus, and the variation of textures with the pecans and cranberries added on top of the pancakes offered a unique touch. Plus: House-made Orange Butter ‘cuz FLORIDA. Yum! But while we’re here, let’s dig into some lunch, too! I went with the Lobster Thermidor Burger. The Grand Floridian Cafe has always had some variation of a lobster-topped burger on the menu, from the Grand Floridian Burger to the Surf and Turf Burger. And — no joke — they’ve all been worth getting. But the current Lobster Thermidor Burger… Lobster Thermidor Burger It’s a stunner. This is a seven ounce Artisanal Burger Patty with Lobster-Parmesan Thermidor Sauce. It comes on a Seared Brioche Bun and is served with the Cafe’s Signature Seasoned French Fries. The Parmesan Cracker on top adds some great texture and contrast as well. While the burger could’ve used a little more seasoning, it wasn’t overcooked, which is worth celebrating. But that SAUCE, tho… Lobster Thermidor Burger Close-Up WITH THE LOBSTER!! Now I know what I’m telling Santa I want for Christmas: a bowl of Lobster-Parmesan Thermidor Sauce and a spoon. DONE. Oh, and P.S. You can get the Lobster Thermidor Burger during dinner, too! While brunch-style offerings aren’t all-together uncommon in Disney Springs (at least on the weekends), I would love to see more of it in Disney Resort restaurants. That said, I’m sure glad it’s at least here at the Grand Floridian Cafe, where they are pulling it off very, very well. Nosh or Not? Hop over to the Grand Floridian Cafe if: You want to check out the Resort and think a peaceful meal sounds heavenly in the midst of your busy vacation. You are a connoisseur of pancakes or LOBSTER-TOPPED BURGERS…. or you just want to become one. (Because this is the place to do it!) You want to start or end your day near the Magic Kingdom but don’t favor the busier Polynesian and Contemporary dining options. Skip the Grand Floridian Cafe if: You don’t want to add a Resort meal to your tight park-touring schedule. You prefer more immersive, high-energy theming. You don’t particularly want to try a LOBSTER-TOPPED BURGER. Overall Honestly, I was surprised by just how awesome this meal was. I’ve always enjoyed the Cafe, but never left feeling like I had to rush back to eat the meal again. This time? It was memorable and will definitely draw me right back. Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! The 2017 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, Second Edition, is now available! With more than 650 pages, the 2017 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, Second Edition 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 get your copy of the 2017 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, Second Edition E-book — and use code SAVE2017 for a 20% discount for a limited time! Use code SAVE2017 at check-out for a 20% off the cover price! Have you ever been pleasantly surprised by a meal you’ve had at a Disney World Resort? 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: Guest Review: Grand Floridian Cafe Breakfast in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Review: Grand Floridian Cafe Review: Dinner at the Grand Floridian Cafe in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort View the full article

If you’ve been following along on the Disney Parks Blog, you’ve seen the exciting changes at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa at the Disneyland Resort. The final phase of the refurbishment included The Veranda, the hotel’s concierge lounge. Formerly known as The Craftsman’s Club, The Veranda is located on the sixth floor near the Great Hall elevators and offers complimentary refreshments in an exclusive, relaxing setting. Since the lounge just reopened to club-level guests, here’s a closer look at the new, sophisticated space. Although Disney’s Grand Californian pays homage to the California Arts and Crafts movement, the new design for The Veranda draws inspiration from the architectural and furniture designs of Charles Rennie Mackintosh, a visionary of the Arts and Crafts movement in Glasgow, United Kingdom. Walt Disney Imagineering specifically drew inspiration from the Mackintosh-designed Willow Tea Rooms in Glasgow, with its contemporary and elegant approach. Like the Willow Tea Rooms, we used white-based colors to make the space seem light, airy and spacious. A special feature is the new wall-to-wall windows, which open onto the balcony and bring in natural light and views of the tree tops. As you can imagine, The Veranda is the perfect spot to watch evening fireworks! The furniture design is also very architectural in style with streamlined shapes and a light color palette. The lighting fixtures and buffet wall incorporate beautiful stained glass, which is also reminiscent of the Willow Tea Rooms. The Veranda’s artwork celebrates craftsmen, nature and the hand made. Since we focused on the Mackintosh style for this lounge, contemporary European artists were commissioned to create custom pieces for the space. This is unique to The Veranda, as all other art pieces throughout the hotel are by California-based artists. Walt Disney Imagineering also collaborated with artists from Amsterdam to transform a wall in the lounge with a custom 10-foot long painted ceramic arrangement. The handmade, vintage plates and platters have been revived with a Disney motif—the iconic landscape of redwoods from Disney’s “Brother Bear.” What’s your favorite feature of The Veranda? View the full article

Still looking for a unique way to ring in 2018? Well, if you’re going to be in Disney World (AND you are 21 years old or over), you might want to consider making plans for New Year’s Eve at … THE EDISON! Screenshot from Patina Restaurant Group website The event includes tray-passed hors d’oeuvres, live-action food stations, and a selection of beer, wine, and spirits from 8:00 pm until midnight (doors open at 7:30 pm). Entertainment, of course, is included as well. Screenshot from Patina Restaurant Group website The ticket price is currently displaying as $150 per guest on the Patina Restaurant Group website. Screenshot from Patina Restaurant Group website And at the strike of midnight, guests can celebrate with a midnight toast. Interested guests should visit the Patina Restaurant Group website to reserve tickets…. and we’re thinking it’s best if you act fast. We can’t imagine these tickets will be around for long. Will you be ringing in 2018 at Disney World? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: Mario and Enzo’s Restaurant — Plus Rum Running Tunnels!! — Coming to The Edison in Disney Springs News! The Edison, Sprinkles Cupcakes, and More Coming to Disney Springs Confirmed: Maria & Enzo’s — Plus Pizza Ponte and Enzo’s Hideaway — Coming to The Edison Complex in Disney Springs View the full article

Feeling a little hungry while you’re shopping for the perfect holiday gift at Disney Springs? Well we have some special treats for you this year. In addition to the Christmas Tree Trail, Santa’s Chalet, and beautiful decorations throughout the town, there’s some delicious sweets being made up just for you! We’ve got candy apples, dome cakes and chocolate galore to help you get your fix of sweetness to fuel up your holiday shopping spree. These offerings will be available throughout the holiday season until Christmas Day, so be sure to stop by one of these popular locations to get in on the holiday “yum!” Starting at Amorette’s Patisserie, you’ll find a variety of items such as holiday mini-dome cakes. Try the Santa Mickey, Ornament or Candle holiday cakes, or even get a full-sized Santa Mickey cake to bring to your next holiday celebration. There are also cute high heel- and shopping bag-shaped gingerbread cookies, decorated with icing and perfect for an on-the-go sweet. For the peppermint aficionados out there, you’ll want to try the delicious peppermint macarons. One of my favorite treats this year, these colorful confections are made with peppermint and have a sweet chocolate filling to complement the flavor! You’ll also find them at Amorette’s Patisserie alongside an array of other wonderful flavors. Over at The Ganachery, the chocolatiers are getting in the spirit of the season with their festive chocolate creations. Assorted ganache squares take center stage with new seasonal eggnog and peppermint flavors and beautifully designed holiday packaging. The Ganachery is also offering beautiful chocolate holiday trees with several layers of chocolate decorated with crispy pearl ornaments and powdered sugar. You’ll also find chocolate-covered stollen bread, gingerbread s’mores, chocolate-covered gingerbread marshmallows and hot sipping chocolate. If you’re looking for some special holiday candy, stop by Goofy’s Candy Company or Disney’s Candy Cauldron, where you’ll find some yummy gourmet apples. These apples are themed after some of your favorite characters, including Mickey, Minnie, Olaf and Sandy Claws! Dipped in chocolate and decorated with sugar, marshmallows and icing. They’ll be sure to satisfy your sweet tooth! View the full article

With the holidays in full swing, our entire Disney Cruise Line fleet is adorned from deck to deck with joyful décor. It takes a whole lot of elves to tackle a celebration of this size and I have some festive figures on just how grand the holidays are on the high seas. 170,000+ individual Christmas lights 100,000+ ornaments and floral picks 19,900 gingerbread bricks 4,226 feet of garland 2,200 lbs. of gingerbread 128 Christmas trees 109 holiday wreaths From holiday entertainment offerings to tasty treats, the season shines bright with Very Merrytime Cruises setting sail through the end of December aboard all four ships. In need of a last-minute holiday gift? Be sure to visit GiveDisneyVacations.com to learn how you can give the gift of a Disney Cruise to your loved ones. View the full article

Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a tiki bar full of enchantment, adventure… and crazy popular souvenir glasses! Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto While many of the specialty cocktails on the menu such as Krakatoa Punch, the Uh-Oa!, and the Polynesian Pearl come in souvenir glasses, the granddaddy of them all is: The Nautilus. And the “glass” is now available in its 2nd edition, according to the @WDWToday Twitter account. Screenshot of The Nautilus @WDWToday Twitter The Nautilus — made to serve two — comes to you filled with Barbancourt Pango Rhum, Appleton Estate Reserve Rum, Combier Crème de Pêche de Vigne Liqueur, Tropical Juices, and Falernum. As with the other drinks served in souvenir glasses, ordering one will set off a chain of special effects around the small room that is the Grog Grotto. Cephalopod Tipping the Rum in the Grog Grotto Remember: this one comes with a granddaddy of a price tag, too. Be sure to check the price listing (it should be tucked in the back of your menu) before you imbibe. Otherwise, drink up, me hearties, YO HO! (I know, I know… wrong attraction reference for a bar themed around the Jungle Cruise. But, still… RUM!!) Do you own any Trader Sam’s souvenir glasses? 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: #OnTheList: Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort FIRST LOOK! Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney World’s Polynesian Village Resort News! Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Souvenir Glasses Now Available View the full article

Disney released new details and visuals on the gondolas that will connect some of its theme parks and hotels at Disney World. The new information on the gondola system, called the Disney Skyliner, was released on the Disney parks blog Friday. One station will be at the International Gateway at... View the full article

We have another special second 12 Days of Disney Parks Christmas announcement to share today! As part of Hong Kong Disneyland’s multi-year expansion plan, the iconic centerpiece of the park will soon be reimagined and undergo a transformation, the first-of-its-kind at any Disney park. The classic castle will draw inspiration from a variety of storybook influences and styles, with new thematic spires, domes and a design that reaches ever skyward. Features will be inspired by many of the Disney princesses, including special finial decorations on the spires such as Snow White’s apple, Cinderella’s coach and Belle’s rose. Original artwork and unique sculptures will add even more magic and fantasy. Guests will be able to visit the all-new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for transformations of their own and meet Disney princesses at the castle. The changes will also take the park’s entertainment to new heights with the premiere of a new daytime show and nighttime spectacular against the impressive backdrop. Work on the castle will begin after the finale of the “Disney in the Stars” fireworks on January 1, and the expansion plan will continue to bring new entertainment to the park almost every year through 2023. Local and international guests alike won’t want to miss the exciting new offerings coming soon to Hong Kong Disneyland! View the full article

If you missed “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” in the movie theaters, you can catch it on ABC. The featurette, with characters from “Frozen,” had a limited run in movie theaters before the hit film “Coco.” “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” will screen at 8 p.m. Thursday on the Disney-owned TV network. The short... View the full article

Disney revealed what the stations will look like for stops along its upcoming Disney Skyliner gondola transportation system. The released renderings give an idea of what riders will see at stops coming to Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the Caribbean Beach Resort. Another stop will be shared... View the full article

Renderings of the Disney Skyliner gondola transportation system coming to Walt Disney World. View the full article