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Moana’s adventurous style has become an inspiration for many fans out there since she first made her Disney debut. And if you and your familia share her bold and daring spirit, here are a few ideas to re-create her characteristic look. No need to sail across the ocean in search for what to wear, since everything you need to be inspired by this fearless guerrera can be found at Disney Springs! Head over to the kids section at ZARA, where you can find two essentials to create the outfit – this cute reddish top that is both stylish and comfortable, paired with these adorable beige/cream flats. Next, visit LittleMissMatched to find these white shorts that give the look a unique twist. Finally, no Moana-inspired ensemble would be complete without accessories…and a loyal best friend, of course! At World of Disney, you can find your own Moana necklace and Pua plush, that you can take with you wherever you go! And listo! What can I say except… De nada! Meaning… You’re welcome! View the full article

Okay, so Halloween is over, and Christmas decor is going up all over Walt Disney World (most noticeably in Hollywood Studios, which you can catch over on our Instagram!). But before we get knee deep in snowmen and Santa hats, we’ve gotta try the brand new Candy Corn Margarita being poured over at the Hollywood Studios pop-up bars! Candy Corn Margarita Sign This seasonal drink is crafted from Patron Silver Tequila, Stoli Vanil Vodka, Fanta Orange, and a splash of Lemonade. And it comes with a glow cube! Candy Corn Margarita with Glow Cube We are loving the color (thanks, Fanta!), which totally gives us candy corn vibes. And while candy corn usually has a marshmallow-y flavor, this drink leans a bit more fruity, despite the vanilla-flavored vodka. That’s thanks, again, to the Fanta and also to a splash of sweet/tart lemonade. Candy Corn Margarita While we don’t necessarily think “Candy Corn Margarita” screams refreshing, because of the fruity notes, it actually is! It’s a delicious and fun seasonal drink. Get it while you can! What’s your favorite seasonal beverage (grown up or not) at the Parks? Tell us about it in the comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News and Review: Hollywood Brown Derby TINY HAT Glowcubes! Review: New Cocktails at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Review: New Cocktails at Fairfax Fare in Disney’s Hollywood Studios View the full article

Sweet on You is one of our newest additions to the Disney Fantasy, and it’s no surprise how quickly it becomes a guest-favorite spot during each cruise. You can enjoy hand-crafted ice cream and gelato on its own, as a sundae, or as a decadent milkshake. Last week I shared the recipe for our Chocolate Fudge Brownie milkshake, and today I’ll tell you how to make our Caramel Waffle Cone milkshake, which smells as good as it tastes! Caramel Waffle Cone Milkshake Milkshake Ingredients: 3 scoops Dulce de Leche ice cream 2 cups vanilla shake mix 2 spoons of chopped waffle cone Toppings: Whipped cream Butterscotch sauce Carmel popcorn Waffle cone Directions: Prepare the cup with butterscotch sauce inside. Blend ice cream, shake mix and waffle cone crumbles until smooth. Pour milkshake into cup and top with whipped cream, butterscotch sauce, popcorn and cone. View the full article

Construction walls will be coming down shortly at the Mexico Pavilion at Epcot World Showcase as the new Choza de Margarita nears completion, a cool new walk-up window for authentic Mexican beverages and street fare. “Choza” is the Spanish word for “hut,” and the outdoor bar sits in the shadow of the iconic Mexico pyramid. The menu offers three hand-crafted margaritas, three frozen margaritas, three Mexican beers and a non-alcoholic Mexican fruit punch with orange, pineapple and grapefruit juices and a splash of grenadine. Small bites include Tacos al Pastor with grilled pork on fresh homemade corn tortillas with green tomatillo sauce, onion, pineapple and cilantro; Empanadas de Barbacoa with beef, topped with chipotle sauce, Mexican cream and queso fresco; and fresh guacamole with mango chutney, pumpkin and pomegranate seeds, served with fried flour chicharrones and salsa Valentina, an authentic Mexican hot sauce. On a hot Florida day, take your pick from one of the three frozen margaritas: Lime (tequila blanco, lime sweet & sour, orange liquor and agave nectar), Wild Strawberry (tequila blanco, strawberry and prickly pear puree, violet flower liquor and lime juice), or Passion Mango (tequila blanco, orange liqueur, wild passion fruit and mango puree). The hand-crafted, on-the-rocks varieties include Acan Grapefruit (Casa Noble Blanco Tequila, grapefruit liqueur, elderflower cordial, lemon juice, cardamom bitters and ginger beer), Lime Cucumber (Avión Blanco Tequila, fresh cucumber, orange liqueur, lime juice and agave nectar), and Guava Pink Peppercorn (Zignum Mexcal Reposado, guava nectar, grapefruit liqueur, lime juice, Peychaud’s Bitters and pink peppercorns). Saludos! View the full article

They’ve got color and quirky style, which is why “Disney Walls” have become unofficial fan-favorite photo locations for many guests visiting a Disney theme park. Photos with vibrant or multicolored “Disney Walls” as a backdrop have been a growing trend on Instagram and Twitter this year – some walls even have their own guest-created hashtags! For some, snapping a picture in front of a Disney Wall is a must-do during a visit, while for others, it’s a fun sort of photo scavenger hunt just to find these walls in the parks. To make your search a bit easier, here are nine popular “Disney Walls” and where to find them at Walt Disney World Resort. 1.Magic Kingdom Park #PurpleWall – Walk down the ramp from Tomorrowland Terrace toward the entrance to Tomorrowland. Right when you hit the turn into the land, you’ll see the #PurpleWall on your right. 2. Epcot’s #BubbleGumWall – Guests will find this wall by simply turning right or left just outside of the exit of Spaceship Earth. 3. Epcot’s #BlueberryWall – Leave the #BubbleGumWall and take two more steps to find the bright #BlueberryWall. 4. Epcot’s #ToothPasteWall – While at Epcot, head to the Seas’s With Nemo and Friends pavilion. You’ll find the #ToothPasteWall upon exiting the pavilion. 5. Disney’s Animal Kingdom #MossWall – Head into Pandora – The World of Avatar and walk towards Satu’li Canteen. Just opposite the restaurant’s front door is the newest popular “Disney Wall,” which you can spot on social channels under the hashtag #MossWall. Tip: The Flight of Passage attraction’s exterior queue also offers some very Instagrammable backdrops. 6. Disney’s Animal Kingdom “You Are Most Beautiful” Wall – No hashtag for this one yet, but it’s still a super popular stop for guests visiting Harambe Marketplace in the Africa section of the park. Look for it on the park-side of a cast members-only doorway. 7. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Harambe Theater Wall – Before you take your seat for “Festival Of The Lion King,” check out the theater’s exterior, which sports quotes and a painting of Mickey Mouse. 8. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Harambe Market – Harambe Market, located in the Africa section of the park, serves up soulful street food and fun photo opps. 9. Mystery Wall – The models in the photo above would like to add this “Disney Wall” to the list. Can you identify the location? Hint: It’s at Epcot. Thanks to photographer Steven Diaz for the photos! Is there another “wall” you love at Disney Parks? Share the location in our comments section below. View the full article

Disney will be celebrating Mickey Mouse’s upcoming birthday in a number of ways, including opportunities at the Walt Disney World theme parks later this month. The big day for the big cheese is Nov. 18, when the character turns 89 years old. This coincides with Mickey’s debut in the animated film... View the full article

The Disney Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure Park in Disneyland Resort will run from November 10, 2017, through January 2, 2018, celebrating the season with special entertainment, music, and FOOD! You can read all about the various experiences that make up the Festival here. But in the meantime, the merry elves at Disneyland Resort are already getting prepared for the second annual celebration! Twelve Festival Marketplace Booths have made their way to Disney California Adventure (with more to come!). And there are SEVERAL new booths making up the list this year, including Chips, Breads & Holiday Spreads (pictured above), and Joy to the Sauce (pictured below)! Joy to the Sauce Holiday Duets is new. Holiday Duets Ditto for A Twist on Tradition! A Twist on Tradition Sounds like comfort foods galore will be featured at Classic Crocks & Casseroles. Classic Crocks & Casseroles Spicy Celebrations might be a replacement for 2016’s Spice Salutations. Spicy Celebrations Blissfully Braised sounds like my kind of holiday place! Blissfully Braised Festive Holiday Extras and Grandma’s Recipes round out the list of new booths we’ve spotted so far. Festive Holiday Extras Grandma’s Recipes Returning from last year are Brews & Bites and Making Spirits Bright. While we await the menus for 2017, you can click either of those links to check out their offerings from last year. Brews & Bites Making Spirits Bright Winter Sliderland is also returning, which is good news. Winter Sliderland Because last year it was home to one of our favorite Festival of Holidays items, the Praline and Bourbon Whoopie Pie. Praline & Bourbon Whoopie Pie Here’s hoping it makes the list this year! We can’t wait to find out exactly what’s in store for the 2017 Festive Foods Marketplace! In the meantime… Click here to find out more about the 2017 Festival of Holidays! You can also check out all of the food booths, menus, and photos from 2016, too! We’ll see you back here VERY soon, when the 2017 Festival of Holidays at Disney California Adventure kicks off on November 10th! Will you be heading to DCA to enjoy the Festival of Holidays? Please let us know with a comment below! 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: Festival of Holidays Food Booths in Disney California Adventure at Disneyland Resort Sneak Peek: New Marketplace Booths Created for 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival News: Festival of Holidays Returns to Disney California Adventure on November 10 View the full article

The big cheese is at it again! Mickey Mouse is headed out on another intrepid adventure to celebrate his birthday with some of his biggest fans, and you can join in on the #HappyBirthdayMickey fun at all of our Disney Parks around the world. Let’s take a closer look at what’s in store. The big day is November 18, and Walt Disney World Resort will celebrate with special “Happy Birthday, Mickey!” buttons, merchandise and Sorcerer Mickey Cake. To commemorate the occasion, guests can sing and dance along with “Happy Birthday” during Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It!, Cosmic Dance Party in Tomorrowland and performances by the Dapper Dans. Plus, birthday photo props will be available at all four theme parks, and everyone who collects their photos at the parks will receive a folder with a commemorative sticker. Disneyland Resort will host a celebration cavalcade for Mickey Mouse, featuring some of his special friends and the Disneyland Band, starting at “it’s a small world” and pausing for a special moment at Sleeping Beauty Castle before continuing down Main Street, U.S.A., to Town Square. There will be plenty of chances to sing “Happy Birthday” along the way, and of course, “Happy Birthday, Mickey!” buttons will be distributed to park guests. Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland Paris is also where the party’s at! Be prepared to celebrate Mickey’s birthday just before “Disney Magic on Parade,” as well as during the Lucky Nugget Saloon show at Disneyland park and in “Mickey and the Magician” at Walt Disney Studios park. And what’s a birthday without cake? Guests can find plenty to snack on at locations around the resort. Guests at Hong Kong Disneyland can pick up a special Mickey Birthday pin and a special edition Times Guide in honor of everyone’s favorite mouse. At Shanghai Disney Resort and Tokyo Disney Resort, guests will have the chance to sing “Happy Birthday” and join in unique photo opportunities. Leading up to the big day, Mickey Mouse will take off to exciting destinations such as Japan, Chile, Canada, China, England and the United States, sharing magical moments on Disney’s Mickey Mouse Facebook and Instagram pages. He will then bring a few more surprises when he visits the Good Morning America studios in New York City on November 17. Be sure to share your favorite moments using the hashtag #HappyBirthdayMickey and join us in celebrating the one and only Mickey Mouse! View the full article

Celebrating the holidays in Florida is easier than remembering the names of Santa's reindeer this season, with a multitude of events across the state. Florida's theme parks and other attractions won't disappoint this year. Universal Orlando will feature Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry... View the full article

Hey, Guys! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re discussing Walt Disney World’s Best Table Service Restaurants… on a budget! Beaches and Cream is great when you’re on a budget (or anytime!) We all know how pricey food at Disney World can be, but today we’re checking out some of the best Table Service spots where you can still have a totally magical dining experience without busting your vacation budget! You’ll find delicious food at all of these spots — and we’d recommend a few of them as much as some Signature dining spots (yes, really!). A few of our favorite budget-friendly spots include Beaches and Cream and The Fountain at Disney’s Dolphin Hotel… but that’s not all! So check out our latest video to see the full list! 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 Disney World budget-friendly tip? 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: Top 5 Budget Friendly Table-Service Restaurants in Disney World: A Tip From the DFB Guide DFB Video: Best to Worst Disney World Two-Credit Restaurants New DFB Video: Best Walt Disney World Restaurants for First Timers View the full article

Hello boys and girls! This is Halloween! This is Halloween! It’s been a while since I’ve watched the Nightmare Before Christmas but I’ve always loved the story of Jack Skellington – longing for something different and, in the end, finding a renewed love for what he already possessed. Designer Brittany Ungvarsky, out of her absolute passion for Halloween, skillfully created an easy no-sew DIY featuring the Pumpkin King and his queen! Everybody scream! Download the Halloween Candy Pouch template and DIY instructions to get started. Be sure to check out our terms of use before downloading. View the full article

OK, for serious. I’m just going to say it. This is the BEST food in Disneyland. Believe me, Napa Rose is incredible, Steakhouse 55 slays, and Club 33 is amazing. I’ve been to all three many times. But if I only have one meal to eat in Disneyland, it’s going to be this one. We all know that Disney restaurants can be maddeningly inconsistent, but this one? Always good. And these particular menu items are home-runs every single time. It’s a good day for a visit to Cafe Orleans in Disneyland, don’t you think? Located in New Orleans Square, this casual Table Service restaurant serves consistently killer NOLA French Quarter-inspired fare with a little bonus panache. New Orleans Square New Orleans Square, for those who haven’t been, is so fun. It’s always Mardi Gras here, people! Big masks, oversized beads, and beautiful architectural details make this place a magnet for visitors to the Happiest Place on Earth. And Cafe Orleans is right in the heart of things. Atmosphere Cafe Orleans is a pretty classy joint. Think stained glass and elegant decor (by theme park standards). It all starts outside. Cafe Orleans Signage Fancy fonts and florals surrounded by wrought iron. Not an animated character in sight. But I don’t want you to think this place is stuffy. It’s totally not. Inside, you find rich, carved wood details, floral sprays, and vintage chandeliers. After all, Walt Disney himself was here back when Cafe Orleans was called the Creole Cafe (it became Cafe Orleans in 2006), so there are some truly classic details. Cafe Orleans Details In fact, this stunning espresso machine is basically as old as the park itself! There’s really so much history here. Cafe Orleans Espresso Machine It’s a beautiful piece machinery, complete with history. (It’s said that Walt himself enjoyed cups from this machine). Moving on, you’ve got functional and stylish — if somewhat minimalistic — seating surrounded by richly colored wall treatments. Framed prints and artwork as well as heavy moldings complete the look. Cafe Orleans Seating The patio seating at Cafe Orleans is also pretty great. When the weather is perfect (as it often is in SoCal), you can’t beat it. It’s like a meal and a show, where people watching is your entertainment. Cafe Orleans View to Patio Once you’re settled in (after some highly recommended exploring), it’s time to order and eat. Eats Before you even enter the restaurant, you can get a glimpse of the menu. It’s not massive, but it contains a few genuine Disneyland gems. Cafe Orleans Exterior Menu Lots of traditional New Orleans cuisine, as you’d expect. Once you’re seated, you’ll get a paper menu. Take time to browse through all of the options, then Laissez les bons temps rouler! Cafe Orleans Menu (click to enlarge) Again, Cafe Orleans is a Table Service location, so your server will take your order. To provide you with an accurate report of the goings on, I ordered, you know… a few things. I’m all about quality control. Cafe Orleans Feast My starter isn’t pictured above, but I always get a bowl of the French Onion Soup. It’s because of the delicate balance of caramelized onions and traditional broth. Cafe Orleans French Onion Soup Okay, really. It’s because of that cheese. Melted Gruyere, to be exact. This is quintessential French Onion Soup. (FYI, the gumbo here is also great!) Cafe Orleans French Onion Soup Another must-eat Cafe Orleans menu item are the Pommes Frites. That’s fancy for French Fries. Cafe Orleans Pommes Frites These happen to be cooked light gold, tossed with garlic, parmesan, and parsley, and served with a side of Spicy Cajun Remoulade. Notice I said “a” side. I always ask for a second, because one is just never enough. I recommend you do the same. Cafe Orleans Spicy Cajun Remoulade All right, so obviously it’s just not a trip to Cafe Orleans without ordering the signature Monte Cristo Sandwich. Layered slices of turkey, ham, and Swiss are coated in batter then deep fried. Finally, it’s all dusted with powdered sugar and served with a side of berry puree. Cafe Orleans Monte Cristo Sandwich Now, you can find this iconic sandwich here and at the Blue Bayou Restaurant, also in New Orleans Square (it’s gonna run you a few more bucks in the Bayou, though). No matter where you’re dining, please don’t leave Disneyland without enjoying this sweet-and-savory, airy-and-crispy, and not to mention MAMMOTH Disneyland classic. Ooh — and here’s a tip! The Monte Cristo can be ordered vegetarian (just layers of cheese) or with only one of the meats (if you have a preference for one over the other). Three-Cheese Monte Cristo at Disneyland’s Cafe New Orleans Just when you think, “Okay, AJ. Exactly how many ‘must-eats’ can one place hold?”… well, I’ve got one more for you: Mickey Beignets. Cafe Orleans Mickey Beignets Beignets are basically like the best donuts you’ll ever eat. And these puffy, pillowy, golden pastries are Mickey-shaped, and served with vanilla and berry dipping sauces. Cafe Orleans Beignets The air pockets lend the beignet its signature lightness, and these ones are always spot-on. Cafe Orleans Mickey Beignets By the way, if you need a Mickey Beignet in your life (and trust me when I say that YOU DO) but can’t nab an Advance Dining Reservation at Cafe Orleans, the Mint Julep Bar in New Orleans Square also sells them in to-go fashion. Just resign yourself to a beard of white powdered sugar and go for it. Care to see all of this in motion? Then pay a visit to Cafe Orleans yourself by way of our YouTube Channel! Overall It’s almost an embarrassment of riches for Disneyland when it comes to dining, so please know that I don’t take it lightly when I say that Cafe Orleans continues to land firmly on my Best Food in Disneyland list. And even though I’ve practically eaten my way through the full menu, I stand by my recommendations for these classic choices. Serving up more than one iconic dish with a hearty side of Disney history, Cafe Orleans really has it all. Should you ever find yourself in New Orleans Square — or anywhere in the general vicinity — please take my advice and don’t miss it! Do you have any must-go Disney Parks restaurants? 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: Disneyland’s Cafe Orleans Review: Butterscotch Mickey Beignets in Disneyland for Halloween Time The Five Best Things I Ate In Disneyland View the full article

Every year our team does a pumpkin decorating contest. It’s amazing the things you can do with a pumpkin. Our competition included a Haunted Mansion, a carousel and even a pumpkin behind construction walls! We won the “spookiest” award with our rendition of Snow White’s poison apple – complete with eerie mist, a black cauldron and a skull! Our designer, Christine Lee, decorated some pumpkins Disney digital style! These were less messy but sadly without the yummy pumpkin seeds. Happy haunting! As always, please be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. View the full article

Back in August, we were thrilled to share the news about the birth of two endangered Sumatran tiger cubs – the first tigers to be born at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Today, we have an update to share about efforts to save their species in the wild, along with a progress report on the cubs. Disney is supporting the efforts of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and their partners to reverse the decline of Sumatran tigers by conducting a tiger population survey in Indonesia and taking steps to increase the wild population of Sumatran tigers by 25 percent in the next decade. In the video below, Anne Savage, PhD, conservation director, explains the significance of this project, funded in part by guests unlocking a $100,000 contribution to the Wildlife Conservation Society through Connect to Protect, a digital mobile adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Disney Parks, through the Disney Conservation Fund, has committed $1 million to protect and restore habitats of at-risk wildlife through the Connect to Protect program. Speaking of Sumatran tigers… the cubs at Disney’s Animal Kingdom are two months old and now have names. We are thrilled to introduce you to Jeda, the male cub, (below left) and Anala, the female cub. The cubs continue to bond with their mother, Sohni, and are really showing their personalities, which inspired their names. Jeda is very laid back, just like his father Malosi. His name means “pause” in Malay. It is inspired by his markings. You might notice that Jeda has two parallel lines inside a stripe on his head that resemble a pause button. Anala has an independent spirit and is very quick to explore new things. Her name means “fiery, sizzling” in Hindi. “The cubs wrestle with each other constantly and love jumping on plants and logs,” said Erin Heavey, an animal care specialist who cares for the tigers. “Jeda in particular loves ripping the bark off the logs and playing with all the pieces that come off. Anala is becoming more adept at sneaking and pouncing and loves hiding behind things (even when she isn’t entirely hidden) and trying to surprise attack Sohni or her brother. This is actually something she gets from Sohni, who loves to “hide and sneak” even though she isn’t always very covert about it.” We look forward to sharing more about when Jeda and Anala will join us on stage in their habitat on Maharajah Jungle Trek. In the meantime, Guests can continue to visit their parents and learn about how they can join us in reversing the decline of these beautiful tigers in the wild at DisneyAnimals.com. View the full article

Disney PhotoPass Service is known for capturing photos of magical vacation moments at Disney Parks, but did you know we also capture videos at select attraction locations at Walt Disney World Resort? That’s right, Disney PhotoPass Service doesn’t just offer photos! While PhotoPass photographers do of course take photos (millions of them actually), we see ourselves more as capturers of memories instead of just photo takers. And at The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, we capture your memories in a unique way by offering attraction video capture! If you wear a MagicBand that is linked to your My Disney Experience account or are wearing a MagicBand 2 Icon in a MagicKeeper while riding either of these attractions, you’ll find a video in your account not long after riding showing you zooming down and around Seven Dwarfs Mine Train or dropping by the Hollywood Tower Hotel. All you have to do is relax and enjoy the ride while we capture and upload your video – you don’t have to do anything else! You’ll be able to view your attraction videos in the My Disney Experience mobile app or at MyDisneyPhotoPass.com; however, an active Memory Maker or Memory Maker One Day entitlement is required to download and share them. These videos are the perfect way to relive the thrills of your visit and cure post-vacation blues! Just don’t forget to wear your MagicBand and purchase Memory Maker. View the full article

‘Tis the season to start planning your holiday soiree! Though it’s not quite November, now is the perfect time to explore your options for this year’s seasonal celebrations. Whether you’re hosting your work team, your neighborhood friends or your family visiting from out-of-town, Disney Springs has a space that’s just right for the occasion. With so many options to fit groups ranging in size from just a few to a few hundred, I’ve rounded up a few of my favorite places with space for entertaining. If you hope to be the “host with the most,” read on: The BOATHOUSE: Known for “great food, waterfront dining and dream boats,” The BOATHOUSE offers two formal private dining rooms that can accommodate up to 50 guests each, or can be combined to make one large room with space for 100. On the menu? Steak, chops, raw bar and seafood dishes, plus some of the most amazing desserts you’ll ever experience. (Tip: Order the S’mores Baked Alaska – it’s their signature dessert for a reason!) Bongo’s Cuban Café: Transport your guests to “Old Havana” with Cuban hospitality, flavorful dishes and creative cocktails. The iconic pineapple room can accommodate up to 54 guests. I recently enjoyed an incredible lunch here and can’t wait to return for another meal. Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’: From a full buyout for 300 guests to smaller groups of 15-75 on the porch, this venue’s approach to upscale Florida fare will make every one of your guests feel right at home. Buffet or family-style service can showcase Chef Art’s signature fried chicken (it’s seriously the best I’ve ever had!), luscious shrimp and grits and much more. Be sure to save room for dessert – Hummingbird and Shine cakes await. House of Blues Restaurant & Bar: With the ambience of an old Southern Delta Juke Joint, this 57,000-square foot venue features indoor and outdoor space, offering a rich setting for holiday parties, social gatherings, and corporate events for groups of 15 to 2,500 guests. Here, the best in live music and eclectic cuisine is served with a side of Southern hospitality. The restaurant just introduced new menu items including a Shrimp Po’ Boy which sounds perfect for a soiree! Morimoto Asia: This gorgeous two-story Pan-Asian restaurant always makes me feel miles from Central Florida. Intimate private dining rooms can be reserved for smaller groups, or the entire second floor – including a private entrance, lounge, sushi bar, and outside patio – can be booked for groups of up to 150. In addition to the creative dishes available, you’ll also have access to an extensive cocktail and sake list, including the Morimoto signature line. The location can accommodate groups of 8 up to 600, and they offer sake tastings or sushi rolling classes for groups that want a more interactive experience. Paddlefish: This newly redesigned location specializes in seafood, but offers options to please any palate. Here, you can experience plated lunches, dinners, chef’s table receptions, and chef demonstrations ideal for corporate lunch or dinner events, intimate wedding ceremonies, receptions or rehearsal dinners. Book a provide dining room for up to 24 guests or reserve the entire rooftop for much larger parties – it offers one of the most breathtaking views in all of Disney Springs! Paradiso 37: Enjoy a “Taste of the Americas” featuring selections from the best of the 37 countries of the Americas along with an extensive selection of cocktails and a two-story tequila tower that boasts over 50 varieties of tequila. The waterfront venue can accommodate up to 409 guests on the main dining floor, with room for 75 guests on the second level. Three semi-private waterfront dining rooms can each host between 40 and 100 guests, or they can be combined into one giant space. Of course, smaller parties are welcome, too! Planet Hollywood Observatory: With four floors of movie memorabilia, the recently transformed Planet Hollywood Observatory offers semi-private event space for groups of 15 or more, and private functions for groups of 75 or larger. American fare takes center stage, with burgers, ribs, pasta and more on the menu. If your guests are extra-hungry, point them towards the burger and sandwich menu by noted celebrity chef, Guy Fieri. Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant: One of my top picks for over a decade, Raglan Road boasts three private dining rooms and three semi-private spaces and features classic Irish dishes like fish and chips and shepherd’s pie, plus a list of specialty libations and beers on tap. Live music and award-winning dancers make this an ideal spot to enjoy dinner and a show. Splitsville Luxury Lanes: Roll in and rock out for an interactive private event showcasing famed sushi, salmon, and filet mignon sliders from this luxury bowling alley. The upstairs, which overlooks the promenade of Disney Springs West Side, can host 250-600 guests. Downstairs the party rolls on with the same energy for groups from 200-400 guests. Round out your experience with craft cocktails and other spirited offerings. I can attest that the ice-cold 18-ounce schooners are a popular choice with party-goers! STK Orlando: When this venue first opened, I got a kick out of the description, “Not your daddy’s steakhouse.” Having dined there several times, I agree that it’s the perfect synopsis! This mix of classic steakhouse meets stylish lounge combines fine dining with a trendy, vibe-driven atmosphere. A robust a-la-carte menu offers the finest steaks, seafood dishes, raw bar options and more, alongside a cocktail list that rivals any you’ll find elsewhere. Two private dining areas can each accommodate up to 36 guests. Ready to learn more? For a limited-time during the holiday season, you can call 407-587-5981 to speak with a Disney Springs Cast Member who can provide you with options for your group size, event budget and culinary preferences. For the best availability, book early in the season before space fills up. To learn more about Disney Springs holidays, check out this recent Disney Parks Blog article. View the full article

Disney Parks How-To Make A Bento Box Magical: Hat Box Ghost View the full article

With Pumpkin Trees in full bloom, the spookiest time of year is officially here! On behalf of the cast and crew of Disney Cruise Line, I want to wish you a frightfully fun Halloween! During an extra-spooky day at sea, Halloween on the High Seas brings a ton of fiendish fun to the Disney Cruise Line fleet from dance parties, costume gatherings, eerie character encounters and of course, lots of candy! In case you missed out on some of the tricks and treats we had up our sleeves this year, take a look back at some of my past posts to learn more about this wickedly good time! Transform Your Devices with Halloween on the High Seas Downloadable Wallpapers Spooky Fun During Halloween on the High Seas Aboard Disney Cruise Line View the full article

Happy Halloween! For the final installment of this year’s pumpkin recipe series, we have a special cupcake that will add that pumpkin flair to any Halloween party. All the ghouls and goblins around are dying to try these pumpkin cupcakes filled with cream cheese and topped with cinnamon buttercream icing. You can find these cupcakes at Contempo Café at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. They’re spooky good! View the full article

Today we’re celebrating Halloween with a look at our Haunted Mansion – or other spooky attractions – at Disney Parks around the world. Think you know everything about The Haunted Mansion, Phantom Manor and even Mystic Manor? Put your knowledge to the test below! .quiz-container#wp-quiz-194977{ background-color:#f0f8fb; color:#565656; border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-194977 .quiz-section h1{ color:#8bb428; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-194977 .quiz-title{ color:#10628b; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-194977 .quiz-header-image{ text-align:right; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-194977 .quiz-section{ border-color:#ffffff; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-194977 .quiz-details, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-194977 .quiz-results, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-194977 .quiz-embed{ border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-194977 .quiz-result{ background-color:#dce4e7; } Ultimate Haunted Mansion Quiz What year did The Haunted Mansion open at Magic Kingdom Park? 1969 1971 1973 1975 What are the ghostly residents of The Haunted Mansion referred to by the attraction’s Ghost Host? Appearing Apparitions Spooky Specters Ghostly Ghouls Happy Haunts What is the name of the attraction ride vehicle that takes you on a tour of the mansion? Doom Buggies Cursed Hearses Wagons How many singing busts are there in the graveyard scene? Three Four Five Six How many ghostly attractions exist at Disney Parks around the world? Two Three Four Five What is the name of the spooky attraction at Hong Kong Disneyland? The Haunted Mansion Mystic Manor Phantom Manor What lands do Haunted Mansion attractions appear in at Disneyland Paris and Tokyo Disneyland? Frontierland & Liberty Square Fantasyland & Liberty Square Frontierland & Fantasyland Liberty Square & Liberty Square Which Haunted Mansion attraction at a Disney Park has a storyline based around Ravenswood family? Phantom Manor in Disneyland Paris Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland Which Disney Legends penned the attraction’s theme song “Grim Grinning Ghosts”? Buddy Baker & Thurl Ravenscroft Buddy Baker & X. Atencio Thurl Ravenscroft & X. Atencio Which Disney Legend contributed her voice to the figure of Madame Leota in the attraction? Leota Toombs Jodi Benson Betty Lou Gerson Kathryn Beaumount What are the “unofficial” names of the Hitchhiking Ghosts? Richard, Barnabus & Ezra Gus, Abe & Ezra Phineas, Ezra & Gus Xavier, Buddy & Paul Which Disney Park’s spooky attraction features a soundtrack by composer Danny Elfman? Mystic Manor at Hong Kong Disneyland The Haunted Mansion at Tokyo Disneyland Phantom Manor at Disneyland Paris Embed Quiz on Your Website Embed Code <div class="wp-quiz" data-quiz-id="194977" data-site-url="https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog"></div> <script type="text/javascript" src="https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/wp-quizzes/js/embed.js"></script>Copy and paste above embed code where you would like the quiz to appear on your website. View the full article

Happy Halloween! Today we have a special Halloween edition Disney Doodle to share with you. In it, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what The Haunted Mansion’s Hitchhiking Ghosts would do if they had the chance to slip out of the mansion and explore the Walt Disney World Resort. What would they do first? Hitch a ride in style! “The Hitchhiking Ghosts are always looking for a ride,” Ashley said. “I’d imagine they’d have a lot of fun riding the Monorail system, although they would have a hard time deciding which guests to follow home!” View the full article

Pay respects to Liz Taylor, Walt Disney at this glitzy graveyard to the stars n Glendale View the full article

We got word about Maria & Enzo’s (formerly rumored to be “Mario & Enzo’s) in August — it’s an Italian Trattoria that will be located adjacent to the upcoming Edison Complex this winter. Today, we’re excited to report that not only has Maria & Enzo’s been confirmed, but there is MORE news to share about restaurant and bar concepts coming to the location! The Edison Complex construction The three restaurants will form a complete complex, but each will feature their own unique menus, with a focus on Italian cuisine. Like The Edison, the concepts are being created by the Patina Restaurant Group (PRG). Maria & Enzo’s Maria & Enzo’s will be set in a 1930s abandoned airline terminal in the Florida waterfront town (that’s Disney Springs, of course). ©Patina Restaurant Group Transformed into a restaurant, the dining room will feature 50-foot ceilings showcasing Lake Buena Vista views, and the entire space will showcase air travel artifacts from the 30s. The menu will be inspired by Sicilian cuisine, including Arancini di Carne (rice balls stuffed with meat), Melanzane Parmigiana (eggplant Parmesan), and handmade pastas – Busiate con Granchio (spiral pasta with crab), ‘Ncasciata al Forno (Sicilian baked pasta). Also look for fresh fish, steaks, and chops on the menu. Enzo’s Hideaway In addition to Maria & Enzo’s, Enzo’s Hideaway will be its own separate restaurant in “what were said to be rum-running tunnels” (which were also hinted at when the news broke in August). It’s a speakeasy!!! ©Patina Restaurant Group The spot will be inspired by apertivo bars in Rome. And, better yet, also inspired by the true Florida history of rum-running. The Tunnel Bar inside will serve Prohibition-era cocktails along with a menu of Roman dishes like Bucatini alla Carbonara (hollow spaghetti with creamy egg and pancetta sauce) and Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe (square-cut spaghetti with pecorino and black pepper). Pizza Ponte And, finally, Pizza Ponte will complete the scene as the fast-casual spot also hinted at earlier this summer. ©Patina Restaurant Group So, guests looking for something quick to eat will find pastries (like Bomboloni — Italian doughnuts!), Sicilian Pizza by the slice, Italian sandwiches (look for a signature Triangolo — a stuffed pizza bread), and espresso. While The Edison is anticipated for a possible (fingers crossed!) late November opening, this additional trio of restaurants are simply noted as opening “this winter.” Wow! Just when you didn’t think anymore could possibly be built into Disney Springs, we have even more options to look forward to! You’ll have to get behind me in line, though, for a slice of that Sicilian pizza. Hmm… or maybe I should start with some rum in Enzo’s Hideaway… Decisions, decisions ! What do you think of this new dining concept coming to Disney Springs? 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 Disney Springs News! Details About The Edison and the Opening of Vivoli Gelateria View the full article

That’s the Power of Magic – A Whole New World | Walt Disney World View the full article

Last month, we set sail on a trip around the world to give our readers a closer look at the different cultures and countries featured in the classic Disneyland park attraction, “it’s a small world”. Last time we were in Latin America, and this month we continue “The Happiest Cruise That Ever Sailed” with our second destination – Europe. As your boat enters Europe, you pass under Tower Bridge. This bridge is an iconic landmark located in London, England. Keeping guard at the bridge are Yeomen Warders, or Beefeaters, dressed in their ceremonial scarlet and gold uniforms. Rising above you as your boat sails by is the Eiffel Tower located in Paris, France. Nineteenth-century can-can dancers invite you to join in on the celebration as ballerinas put on a show beneath the iconic tower. Enjoy the sounds of Flamenco music as your boat next passes into Spain and Portugal. A guitarist plays a fast-paced tempo as a young dancer, in a Sevillana dress full of ruffles and color, claps her hands and dances to the rhythm. Your boat continues the tour of Europe in Italy. Titling to one side is one of Italy’s iconic landmarks, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. A gondolier navigates his swinging gondola through the Venice canals as a chorus of Italian opera singers belt out the attraction’s famous tune. Welcoming you the Low Countries are Dutch children sitting on top of blooming tulips, tapping their wooden clogs. Right behind them, a Belgian goose girl leads a flock of geese. With the Alps soaring up into the sky, bell ringers inside chalet-inspired wooden clocks bid you farewell and safe travels. Where will our cruise take us next time? Check back to find out! View the full article