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Not all heroes wear capes – some wear running shoes. This past weekend, a record-breaking 10,000 runners signed up to take flight in Marvel 10K Weekend 2017 – Presented by AIA Vitality at Hong Kong Disneyland. As with all great heroes, they didn’t act alone. Participants were joined by the legendary Captain America, Thor, Spider-Man, Star-Lord, and, for the first time at Hong Kong Disneyland, Black Widow, Hawkeye, Gamora and Doctor Strange. Throughout the weekend, runners competed in four action-packed races: the Captain America 10K, Thor 5K, Spider-Man 3K and Kid Races. This year also marked the inaugural Leadership 3K, which gave local leaders the chance to run as a way to encourage healthy living. Participants in this year’s Marvel 10K Weekend also had the chance to make a difference for people in need. Disney VoluntEARS united with Do Good volunteers from Chow Tai Fook to help raise support and awareness of the Hong Kong Association for Cleft Lip and Palate, whose mission is to serve patients with physical challenges and provide care to their families and caretakers. In addition to supporting the Hong Kong Association for Cleft Lip and Palate, runners became green heroes by bringing their own water bottles or drinking from reusable cups provided at the event center. The event was entirely carbon neutral, and the funds given through carbon offsetting were used for a renewable energy project in China. Once again, congratulations to all the runners who came out for this year’s Marvel 10K Weekend. As with all great super heroes, you remind us all that good is not a thing you are, it’s a thing you do. View the full article

We’re just weeks away until the epic Marvel Day at Sea event kicks off on select Disney Magic cruises! This new portrait of Thor leaves no doubt that the god of thunder and lightning is the true picture of worthiness. Hailing from the mythical realm of Asgard, Thor wields one of the greatest weapons ever made, the enchanted hammer Mjolnir. Thor is smart, compassionate and self-assured, and he will never, ever stop fighting for a worthwhile cause. Often at odds with his half-brother Loki, Thor is a self-proclaimed protector of Earth and a founding member of the Avengers. During Marvel Day at Sea, you may have a heroic encounter with Thor as he wields his powerful hammer Mjölnir around the ship or see him in another epic battle with his brother Loki in the nighttime deck show. In Marvel’s Avengers Academy, young guests can come face-to-face with the mighty Thor to discover what it takes to become a true hero. In a special youth activity, Thor teaches kids the path to becoming worthy through strength, knowledge and compassion. Stay tuned to meet more Super Heroes assembling for Marvel Day at Sea, which premieres on select 7- and 8-night Disney Cruise Line sailings from New York this fall, and returns on select 5-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami in early 2018. View the full article

It would be a Disney World dream come true for some people: An overnight stay inside Cinderella Castle is the prize in a charity campaign that will benefit the Give Kids the World charity. The winner, selected randomly, and five other guests will spend the night in the Cinderella Castle Suite at... View the full article

It would be a Disney World dream come true for some people: An overnight stay inside Cinderella Castle is the prize in a charity campaign that will benefit the Give Kids the World charity. The winner, selected randomly, and five other guests will spend the night in the Cinderella Castle Suite at... View the full article

Fall at Walt Disney World Resort doesn’t just bring a change in the weather and the start of popular seasonal events – it also brings a change in photo opportunities! From the delightfully festive to the downright villainous, today I’m sharing the top five Magic Shots you can take with Disney PhotoPass Service photographers this fall at Walt Disney World Resort. All you have to do is ask a PhotoPass photographer! Some of these Magic Shots are only available for a limited time, so be sure to note which you can receive during your visit. The recipe to creating the perfect keepsake of your visit to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival? Including Remy in your photo! Those with the appetite to take this photo shouldn’t waste time chewing it over; this Magic Shot will only be available at Epcot during the festival, which runs through November 13. Iago can become your sidekick at most PhotoPass locations at Magic Kingdom Park or at Oasis at Disney’s Animal Kingdom through November 2. Not visiting before November 2? This Magic Shot is available at the Epcot Morocco Pavilion year-round. Beware of hitchhiking ghosts! Throughout the year, one or more of these loveable phantoms might just join your photo near the exit of the Haunted Mansion. Through November 2, the nefarious hyenas from “The Lion King” are wreaking havoc at select PhotoPass locations in Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Conjure up the perfect photo through November 2 on Sunset Boulevard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios or at most PhotoPass locations at Magic Kingdom Park. Want to know what other Magic Shots are available at Walt Disney World Resort? The Disney PhotoPass Service Facebook page has a photo album showing each park’s current Magic Shot offerings and where they can typically be found. Be sure to check it out right before your visit – the available Magic Shots and their locations are continually updated! Magic Shots can be purchased individually at MyDisneyPhotoPass.com or downloaded as part of an active Memory Maker or Memory Maker One Day entitlement. Please note that these Magic Shots cannot be taken at Character Experience locations. View the full article

In our Disney Doodles blog series, our team of Disney artists imagine what a Disney character would do or see they had the chance to visit a Disney Park. In today’s Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what Jiminy Cricket from “Pinocchio” would do first if we had a chance to visit Epcot – especially this time of year when the park is packed with foodie fun at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. “Jiminy is always making sure everything is in order!” Ashley said. “So it’s easy to imagine him spending his mornings on top of Spaceship Earth! He can look down and make sure the park is clean and ready for guests!” View the full article

We wait all year for the start of it. Yep — the Epcot Food and Wine Festival is underway! If you haven’t been, be sure to put the event on your Disney Bucket List. At this time of year, Epcot is transformed into a food lover’s paradise. With Festival Marketplace Booths throughout both Future World and World Showcase, the opportunity to Eat Your Way Around the World(s) is even more exciting! But then there are also so many events to attend. From free options like book signings and Back to Basics Seminars, to Low Cost Seminars and Demonstrations, there are lots of less expensive options. But there are also some choices if you’d like to splurge a little. Party for the Senses draws big crowds every year, as do pairing events and signature dining options at restaurants throughout the resort. Booths Are Going Up! It’s Almost Time! It’s a lot to plan for! So we’d love to offer you advice on a few Dos and Don’ts for navigating the Epcot Food and Wine Festival like a pro. Consider these pointers as you make plans to attend this year’s event. DO Consider Attending a Special Event. Special Events take place throughout the festival and offer guests opportunities to get up close and personal with chefs, sample a multitude of dishes and sips, or learn more about food and beverage pairings. While they can be pricey, they represent some of the most wonderful opportunities to enjoy yourself at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. While many of the events take place at Epcot, there are several that are held at resorts throughout Walt Disney World. One of our favorites is Behind the Scenes at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. Deconstructed Shrimp Dish and Drinks at Behind the Scenes at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Get a peek behind the curtain of all the curious magic that makes Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto one of the most intriguing spots in all of Disney. And with samples of both dishes and drinks along the way, you get a great idea of fun food options here, too. But if tikis aren’t your thing, consider a Cheese Seminar and learn to pair the world’s best cheeses with beverages like an expert. Fancy a trip to France? Indulge in the Parisian Breakfast, one of the festival’s best events (and a terrific bargain as well!), or take in a leisurely lunch during French Family Traditions. Parisian Breakfast If grand tastings + partying the night away are more your style, then check out Party for the Senses, held select Saturdays throughout the festival. FOOD AND WINE BOOTHS AND MENUS DO Eat Good Stuff. I mean, after all, this is why we’re here, right? You must seek out old favorites, and try some delicious new drinks and dishes. This year, we’re psysched to see some really inventive and fun new items at the booths — 35 in all! Wait until you get the chance to try the Teriyaki-glazed SPAM® Hash with Potatoes, Peppers and Onions, and Spicy Mayonnaise from Hawai’i. Teriyaki-glazed SPAM® Hash with Potatoes, Peppers and Onions, and Spicy Mayonnaise And there’s so much goodness coming! Returning favorites like the Escondidinho de Carne in Brazil and the Loaded Mac and Cheese at Active Eats are both on our short list, too. Be sure to check out all 12 of the things that you must eat (and drink) at this year’s festival for even more recommendations. DO Go at the Right Time. The Epcot Food and Wine Festival has grown like crazy, and that means that it can be quite busy at times. You’ll want to plan ahead to miss the biggest crowds. Because I don’t know about you, but standing in long lines for food doesn’t rate among my favorite things to do. Start Your Planning NOW! News! The DFB Guide to the 2017 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available to order! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. We cover every single World Showcase Booth, and include full-color photos for most of the food items being offered at this year’s festival! Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% discount! Be sure to stay tuned to Disney Food Blog for all of the latest coverage about the 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. We’ll have the details FIRST! Crowds swell especially on the weeekends and in the evenings so, if at all possible, plan your visit for a weekday, and try to get there earlier in the day. Also, avoid the beginning and ending weekends of the festival, which are both typically very busy times as well. Lines. Yeah. No. For some other suggestions on how to make the most of your visit, check out our Top Tips for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. On the other hand, here are a few definite DON’Ts… Don’t wait until the last minute. Special Events, Demonstrations, and Seminars tend to sell out quickly. You don’t want to wait until you arrive for the festival to make your arrangements. Be sure to check out our dedicated Epcot Food and Wine Festival pages in order to make your arrangements now. We loved this Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It! Workshop learning about wine, chocolate, and cheese pairing. You should check it out! Find links for schedules of ALL the culinary demonstrations, beverage seminars, and hands-on workshops on our Low-Cost Event main page. Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It: Wine, Cheese, and Chocolate Paired Perfectly Likewise, you want to review those Booth Menus and Photos before you arrive. Trust me when I say that trying to tackle 35 booths without a plan isn’t going to work well for you. Research your options ahead and time, and know what you would like to try the most before you hit the turnstiles. Don’t Miss Festival Exclusive Schofferhofer Hefeweizen Pomegranate Beer at Also, don’t skip the festival because you’re short on time or you have kids in tow. Even if you have only one day, with our tips and strategies, you can still see and do a lot at the festival! As for the kiddos, getting them involved by choosing dishes to try is the perfect way to engage them. Also, check out Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt, a fun experience for kids of all ages! For even more Don’ts, be sure to check out our post, What NOT to Do at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. Want More Epcot Food and Wine Festival Info? We’ll have all the coverage and information you need right here on Disney Food Blog! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Index 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Index 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Special Events 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations 2017 Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Epcot Food and Wine Festival Fans Facebook Page 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Wine and Dine Half Marathon 2017 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Food and Wine Festival 101 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Gluten Free Items How to Book Epcot Food & Wine Festival Events To book all special events and demonstrations, call 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378) starting July 20 at 7:00AM ET. Culinary Demonstrations and Beverage Seminars and general admission for some special events may be bookable online at www.epcotfoodfestival.com as well as by phone. Tables in Wonderland members, Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Golden Oak Residents are eligible for a $2 discount (per person, per event) for beverage and seminars and culinary demos taking place Mon-Thurs during the festival. Members of these groups can also book all Special Events early on July 18th beginning at 9:00AM ET. Discounts are by phone only at 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Stay tuned to DisneyFoodBlog.com and the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for details. Chase Disney Visa Cardholders will not have early access to booking. Now we wanna here from you! What are your tried and true Dos and Don’ts for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival? Leave a comment and share your tips 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: The 12 Things You MUST Eat at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival This Year New Video: Our Top Tips for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival! 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Tip: How Many Days Should I Budget For the Festival? View the full article

Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark is now open, taking Disney California Adventure park guests on a whole new adventure during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort. In the video below, Imagineers Joe Rohde and Amy Jupiter explain more about this new take on Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and give a peek at what guests can expect when they help Rocket attempt to #SaveGroot from The Collector’s Fortress! Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark is now open each night during Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort through October 31, with Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! continuing throughout the season during the day. View the full article

Hey Guys! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re getting down to the serious business of RANKING Magic Kingdom restaurants! With so many new and classic Magic Kingdom restaurants to choose from, it can be nearly impossible to know what’s what! That’s why we’re here to help! We’re reviewing all the greats (and the not so greats) in this video and ranking the Magic Kingdom restaurants best to worst. 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 where we ranked your favorites! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: New Video: The WORST Restaurants in Disney World New DFB Video: Magic Kingdom Table Service Restaurants You Have To Try! New DFB Video: Top 5 Magic Kingdom Counter Service Restaurants View the full article

Changes are in the works for Party for the Senses, Epcot’s chichi extra-ticket event. And one update might rate a standing ovation — which would be ironic because for the first time in history, everyone attending will have assigned seating. This switch is a result of guest feedback, said Thomas Tryon,... View the full article

Changes are in the works for Party for the Senses, Epcot’s chichi extra-ticket event. And one update might rate a standing ovation — which would be ironic because for the first time in history, everyone attending will have assigned seating. This switch is a result of guest feedback, said Thomas... View the full article

Changes are in the works for Party for the Senses, Epcot’s chichi extra-ticket event. And one update might rate a standing ovation — which would be ironic because for the first time in history, everyone attending will have assigned seating. This switch is a result of guest feedback, said Thomas... View the full article

Changes are in the works for Party for the Senses, Epcot’s chichi extra-ticket event. And one update might rate a standing ovation — which would be ironic because for the first time in history, everyone attending will have assigned seating. This switch is a result of guest feedback, said Thomas... View the full article

This year marks the return of the Spain global marketplace to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, and we couldn’t be more alegres! The marketplace, which originally debuted at the Festival back in 1997 and returned in 2010, features delicious foods inspired by la Madre Patria. The menu includes delicacies like Charcuterie in a Cone with a selection of imported Spanish meats, cheeses, olives and an herb vinaigrette; a traditional Paella with shrimp, mussels, chicken and crispy chorizo; a Seafood Salad with shrimp, bay scallops and mussels and, for dessert, a sweet Olive Oil Cake with powdered sugar and lemon curd. Delicioso! Beverages include an array of wines from several regions in the country: Rafael Palacios Bolo Godello (Valdeorras), Bodegas y Viñedos Artazu Garnacha Rosado (Navarra) and Casa Castillo Monastrell (Jumilla). A wine flight is available, making it a great opción for those who want to try them all. The 22nd Epcot International Food & Wine Festival takes place daily and runs through November 13, with a record number of 35 global marketplaces celebrating 35 years of Epcot. For more information visit epcotfoodfestival.com. View the full article

We’re gearing up for an event weekend like no other as we get ready celebrate 25 years of the most magical race on Earth during the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna! Featuring our biggest race weekend of the season, with six races and three challenges hosted by some of our Fab Five friends and Dopey, participants will look forward to lots of fun and excitement and of course, MEDALS. This year’s medals commemorate the silver anniversary with colorful designs and lots of SPARKLE! Take a look at what you can earn this year, with limited spots still remaining for select races: Starting off the race weekend celebration in the most “paw”-fect way is the Walt Disney World 5K. After an exciting run with fun for the whole family, earn a fetching medal featuring Mickey and his pal, Pluto. Runners, rock those dots for a thrilling 6.2-mile run during the Walt Disney World 10K featuring hostess, Minnie Mouse. This year’s sparkly medal spotlights our favorite mouse couple together with the lanyard featuring Minnie’s signature white polka dots. Run, don’t waddle your way to the finish line during the Walt Disney World Half Marathon hosted by our beloved friend, Donald Duck. Enjoy a “quack”-tastic 13.1-mile course to earn this year’s medal featuring our feathered friend and his pal, Mickey Mouse. It’s a four-park celebration that’s been 25 years in the making as we end the weekend celebration with 26.2 magical miles during the Walt Disney World Marathon, with your host Mickey Mouse. This year’s spectacular medal design captures the excitement of the silver anniversary year while keeping true to the classic design elements of Mickey that have been featured throughout all the Marathon medals over the years. Don’t miss the fun spinning element in the middle of the medal! Our ‘Goofiest’ and ‘Dopiest’ participants, conquering either the Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge by completing both the Half Marathon and full Marathon or the Dopey Challenge by completing the 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and full Marathon, can look forward to earning these medals full of character! This year’s Dopey Challenge medal also incorporates a nod to its 5th Anniversary. Those runners looking to rack up even more miles can set sail aboard Disney Cruise Line and participate in the Disney Castaway Cay Challenge on January 10, 2018. Combine any Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend race with the Castaway Cay 5K, a 3.1-mile adventure around Disney’s beautiful private island in the Bahamas, and earn this medal showcasing the spirit of running from parks to paradise! Want to join in this year’s spectacular celebration? Limited spaces remain in select race events so check out our website to see how you can earn this exciting “bling”! Let us know which race you’ll be participating in using the hashtag #WDWMarathon on our social channels! Follow runDisney on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram. To learn more about other runDisney events, please visit us here! View the full article

We’re at ‘Ohana!! And ‘Ohana means FAMILY. Learn About: ‘Ohana Polynesian Resort Disney World Restaurants From the moment you enter ‘Ohana, you’re informed (or reminded, for returning guests) of the meaning of the restaurant’s name. This family-friendly spot is perched atop the Great Ceremonial House at the Polynesian Village Resort, and it’s become a must-dine for guests of all ages — including Disney World first timers! The warmth of the atmosphere at ‘Ohana really makes you feel like you’re part of a massive extended family (where your server is your cousin), and that’s a really good thing. ‘Ohana has two dining experiences. Breakfast features characters with Lilo, Stitch, Pluto, and the Main Mouse himself. Dinner, on the other hand, is not a character meal, but still includes entertainment (which I’ll show you in this post). In either case, meals are all-you-care-to-enjoy. And while I really do love breakfast here, my most recent visit was for dinner. ‘Ohana You are very welcome here at ‘Ohana! Atmosphere ‘Ohana echoes the Polynesian’s rich design, from fabrics to artwork to wood details. Tiki idols set the mood as soon as you enter the restaurant. Tiki idols stand watch as you enter ‘Ohana The center of the large dining room has a grand raised ceiling complete with thatched roof elements, and dimmed lighting throughout provides a cozy feel. ‘Ohana Dining Room During dinner service, an enormous open grill sizzles with skewered meats emitting spellbinding aromas. (These skewers are brought around to your table throughout your meal.) ‘Ohana Grill — where the magic happens! Entertainment during the evening might include Coconut Races, which allow kids to get up and get moving around and around the restaurant! Coconut Races And it pretty much always includes a singer armed with a ukelele, which adds to that relaxed Hawaiian island feel. Even better: if you time your meal just right, you’ll have a long distance (and unique) view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks show, Happily Ever After. And this is where I have to share a story… on my most recent visit, our server was exceptionally awesome throughout the meal. And at the end? Even after I settled the bill, he noticed the table next to us — located directly in front of the window offering prime Castle viewing — had been vacated. He cleaned it off in case my friends and I wanted to move to that table for the evening’s fireworks. This was simply above and beyond, and just downright nice. Yep, ‘Ohana means family. So! Now that you’ve gotten into the island vibe and put on your Hawaiian shirt, it’s time to eat! And along with that shirt, may I suggest some stretchy pants? You’re about to see why… Eats We’ve mentioned that the meal here is all-you-care-to-enjoy, and that’s the truth. But I often find that I don’t have a ton of stomach space for those seconds and thirds. That’s because dinner at ‘Ohana has several components. (Plus, you’re going to want to save at least a little room for dessert. Trust me.) It all starts with ‘Ohana’s signature Pineapple Bread, which travels to your table with you as your seating host picks it up on the way to your table. It’s got a subtle sweetness paired with a toasted, golden brown exterior. You’ll find some coconut incorporated throughout as well. Pineapple Bread Head’s up, though. No butter is served here — it’s just the bread. Arriving shortly is a crunchy, fresh, veggie-packed salad. This part of the meal has seen a lot of iterations over the years (the current Lilikoi Dressing replaced the much-beloved Honey-Lime Dressing that used to be used). Salad But as salads go, it really is a good one. There are a lot of fresh and colorful vegetables in it, as well as some crispy wonton strips. (One of my friends couldn’t resist seconds, but I knew better in regards to saving prime stomach real estate ;-D ). The next wave of food features two sauces meant for pairing with the appetizers and main course meats: Peanut and Sweet and Sour. (These were delivered to the table in this state….I promise we’re not THIS messy with our eating.) Sauces The appetizer platter is up next! The Honey-Coriander Wings (which you can also order up at Kona Cafe) are always a messy highlight. The Pork Dumplings are tossed in Ginger-Garlic Sauce, but you’ll still want to dunk these in the dipping sauces. Sides — Wontons, Lo Mein, Stir Fried Vegetables, Chicken Wings Lo Mein takes up the center of the platter. The noodles are tossed in a teriyaki sauce without a whole lot of wow. They’re not terrible, but you likely won’t want to spend too much time on them. Sides — Wontons, Lo Mein, Stir Fried Vegetables, Chicken Wings The same could be said for the Stir-Fried Vegetables, except that you might want to balance out some of the heavier components of the meal with the veggies. The appetizers are pretty great, but don’t forget the entree round is next. You’ll likely smell the huge skewers before you see them! Servers carry the skewers ’round and ’round the restaurant, sliding generous portions directly onto your plate per your preferences. Now let’s stop a minute here to reflect on our previous ‘Ohana experiences. My elevator speech on ‘Ohana until this meal has always been “great apps, horribly over-cooked meat, great dessert.” So I wasn’t expecting much when it came to the meats. They’ve always been super over-done…to the point of being rubbery and difficult to chew…in my experience. BUT, ‘Ohana, you proved me wrong on this visit! The Sweet-and-Sour Chicken, which is grilled over an oak wood fire, arrived first. Grilled Chicken I’m happy to report that on this visit the chicken was nice and juicy, and surprisingly flavorful. Next was the Szechuan Sirloin Steak! It’s grilled over that same oak fire and coated with a bit of sauce. Grilled Steak Not only was it tender and juicy, but it was also nicely medium pink inside. It. was. DELICIOUS. (OH, and FYI, don’t stress out about the sauces on the meats here. They’re very mild and you’ll barely notice them when it comes to flavors.) The final skewer option is Spicy Grilled Peel-and-Eat Shrimp. While this is a slightly messy option as far as those peels are concerned, they retain a good amount of flavor from a salty (wouldn’t exactly call it spicy, though) glaze. Grilled Shrimp If you’re looking for a lighter protein option, the shrimp is for you! (But remember, you aren’t at all limited, so try it ALL!) If you’ve been a DFB reader for any length of time, you’ll recognize this next beauty right away. Dessert at ‘Ohana is its very own legend: it’s ‘Ohana Bread Pudding with Caramel and Banana Sauce. Bread Pudding Begins The bread pudding arrives with a huge scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream and a pot of warm bananas foster sauce on the side. It may not look like much at first. But when you pour that warm sauce over the cold ice cream and it all melds together… it’s my favorite dessert in Disney World. Has been for years and years. ‘Ohana Bread Pudding DFB tip: If you’re not up for the whole shebang at ‘Ohana (or can’t land a coveted Advance Dining Reservation), you can also get the ‘Ohana Bread Pudding at the Tambu Lounge, adjacent to ‘Ohana! It’s not available all day (typically you can get it after 4:00 pm), but if the timing works for you, the ‘Ohana Bread Pudding is well worth a Monorail ride over from the Magic Kingdom. Nosh or Not You’ll want to grab your hula skirt and make your way to ‘Ohana for dinner if: You love the island vibe of the Polynesian Village Resort and want to indulge all your senses. You love meat! You want to make terrific use of a Table Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan. You want a unique view of the fireworks. Make your way to a different food island if: You and your party aren’t big meat eaters and fear this huge meal will be lost on you. You aren’t planning to spend any time at the Monorail Resorts. Overall Like many of the most popular restaurants in Disney World, ‘Ohana can be hit or miss. Though the setting is always great (especially when you can time things right with fireworks viewing), I’ve had my nights when the skewers were slow to show up and, once they did, the meat wasn’t very impressive. What I can tell you with certainty, though, is that on this particular visit, ‘Ohana was COMPLETELY firing on all cylinders from the atmosphere, to the stellar service, to the well-executed food. It easily earned its way back to the top of my list, and I am already looking forward to my next visit. 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! Are you an ‘Ohana fan, cousin? 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: New DFB Video: ‘Ohana Bread Pudding at The Polynesian Village Resort’s Tambu Lounge #OnTheList: ‘Ohana Bread Pudding at Tambu Lounge in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort #OnTheList: ‘Ohana Character Breakfast at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort View the full article

You’ve seen him. You’ve already fallen in love with him. You MAY have already tried but failed to find him (because he’s selling’ out, y’all)… Oogie Boogie Popcorn Bucket Oogie Boogie Popcorn Bucket It’s the Glow-in-the-Dark Oogie Boogie Popcorn Bucket, and he’s taking Disneyland at Halloween Time by storm! AND you may be able to find him floating around Disney World, too, where he’s exclusive to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary-Halloween Party. Glowing Oogie Still, Ooogie Boogie is not the only creepy collectible at Disney Parks this fall. We’ve already spotted several in Disneyland, and there’s more on the way coming to both Disneyland AND Walt Disney World! Different pieces will start arriving throughout September AND October, so you’ll have to keep your eyes — and social media feeds — peeled! Hitchhiking Ghosts Tiki Mug Let’s start with the Hitchhiking Ghosts Tiki Mug… you may recall this uber-popular-causing-lines-for-DAYYZZZ collectible from Halloween 2016. It was available (in a different color for each coast) at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar in Disneyland, and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto in Disney World. 2016 Hitchhiking Ghosts Tiki Mug And the ghosts will be materializing again! Disney has confirmed that a 2nd edition is on the way once more to the Trader Sam’s locations on both the west and east coast! MORE Popcorn Buckets We’ve already spied the super adorable Mickey Pumpkin Popcorn Bucket in Disneyland, along with Oogie Boogie. Halloween Specialty Popcorn Bucket But did you know that the Headless Horseman will be appearing with Oogie Boogie on another Popcorn Bucket coming to Disney California Adventure, too??? A Trick-or-Treat-themed Popcorn Bucket will make its way to both Disneyland and Disney World parks as well. Cups, Cubes, and More Speaking of the Headless Horseman (a personal favorite of mine), he’ll come galloping into Disney California Adventure on a Glow Straw/Clip! ©Disney He’ll be in Disneyland park, too, but only at Mickey’s Halloween Party. You’ll also find a Mickey Pumpkin Glow Bottle Topper in Disneyland park. The Poison Apple Stein has been a hit on both coasts for a couple of years now. Poison Apple Stein-turned-Lantern at home! This year, you’ll find the ghoulish stein throughout Disneyland Resort at both parks and each hotel. And the Poison Apple Glow Cubes will return to Disneyland, too! Poison Apple Glow Cubes The red glow cube will be available at both parks and each hotel, but you’ll have to visit Carthay Circle Restaurant and Lounge to get your hands on the exclusive GREEN Poison Apple Glow Cube. ©Disney And, of course, new this year for Haul-O-Ween in Cars Land is the Traffic Cone Sipper, complete with Halloween stickers! Traffic Cone Bottles Find them at Cozy Cone Motel, along with a Tire Pumpkin Glow Straw. So, much like the Headless Horseman himself, it’s time to get yourself ready for the hunt. Which souvenir Halloween collectible tops YOUR list? Please let us know your favorite Halloween collectible 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: Dining in Disneyland: Zero Premium Popcorn Bucket and Other Halloween Time Popcorn Souvenirs News: Haunted Mansion Hitchhiking Ghosts Tiki Mug in Disney World and Disneyland News! Hitchhiking Ghosts Tiki Mug Has Arrived at Trader Sam’s in Disney World View the full article

River Cruises through Adventures by Disney continue to be popular exchange options in the Disney Vacation Club community, and with a special discount offer on Danube River Cruises available through October 20, more Members than ever are poised to enjoy this unique travel experience. These all-inclusive, guided adventures with AmaWaterways visit eight destinations in four European countries over eight days and seven nights. Unlike a traditional ocean liner, the considerably smaller river cruise ship docks in the heart of each destination, allowing families to spend more time enjoying a wide range of planned experiences, from biking the countryside and exploring salt mines in Austria to taking in a horse show in Hungary to honing one’s bow-and-arrow skills at Slovakia’s Devin Castle. Qualifying Members* making new Danube River Cruise bookings through October 20 receive a credit of 49 vacation points per person toward the cost of their cruise. Learn more about Danube River Cruises here before calling Member Services to book your adventure. Effective, March 21, 2011, Members who do not purchase their ownership interests directly from Disney will not be able to use those Vacation Points for the Disney Collection or Concierge Collection. All reservations are subject to availability and trips are subject to cancellation. A non-refundable $95 transaction fee applies per confirmed Adventures by Disney reservation. Airfare to and from destination is not included. Members should contact Member Services for additional information, including trip components and dates, details about overnight accommodations required before and after itinerary dates, age ranges, gratuities, additional surcharges, etc. Offer valid on a limited number of select staterooms and stateroom categories (note that suites are excluded). Bookings are subject to availability. Valid on new bookings only. Offer is not transferable or redeemable for cash in whole or in part and cannot be sold or transferred for commercial use. Cannot be combined with any other offers, discounts or promotions. Lead guest of the booking party must travel on the river cruise package booked. Void where prohibited. Offer is subject to change without notice. Bookings subject to restrictions and Adventures by Disney’s standard terms and conditions. View the full article

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground reopened Wednesday after it was shut down for more than a week from Hurricane Irma. Fort Wilderness, which has been open almost as long as Magic Kingdom has and faces Bay Lake, holds about 800 campsites and 400 cabins. The campsite shut down Sept. 9... View the full article

Two longstanding rides, a long-running Halloween event and SeaWorld Orlando were Central Florida’s winners in the 2017 Golden Ticket Awards, determined by Amusement Today voters. SeaWorld was tabbed as best marine life park. Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at Disney’s Hollywood Studios was named... View the full article

Peanut Butter n’ Jelly Milkshake Recipe at 50’s Prime Time Café View the full article

Walt Disney World is reviving Star Wars: Galactic Nights, the one-night, after-hours event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park on Dec. 16. It will be the second installment of Galactic Nights. The first one, held in April of this year, was a sell-out. The event includes unique “Star Wars”-inspired... View the full article

Walt Disney World is reviving Star Wars: Galactic Nights, the one-night, after-hours event at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park on Dec. 16. It will be the second installment of Galactic Nights. The first one, held in April of this year, was a sell-out. The event includes unique “Star Wars”-inspired... View the full article

Fall has returned to the Walt Disney World Resort and with it, a guest-favorite seasonal event – Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is an after-hours ticketed event that takes place at Magic Kingdom Park from 7 p.m. to midnight. Just as the sun sets, the park is transformed into an unbelievable Halloween wonderland with spooky music and lighting effects, can’t-miss entertainment experiences, trick-or-treating and much more. We’re thrilled to share today that on Friday, September 22, we’ll share a #DisneyParksLIVE stream of a Not-So-Scary must-see, “Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade,” right here on the Disney Parks Blog. The parade, offered only during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parties, is a procession of favorite Disney characters dressed in their Halloween best, floats inspired by the Disney villains – and even characters from The Haunted Mansion – plus a candy inspired cavalcade finale. To catch our #DisneyParksLIVE stream of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party on September 12, bookmark this page or simply visit the Disney Parks Blog starting at 9:30 p.m. ET. This page will refresh with the live stream video feed at that time. Want to see “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Parade” in person? Remaining dates are: September 22, 24, 26, 29; October 1, 3, 5, 6, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 20, 22, 24, 26, 27, 29, 31 & November 1. Grab a ticket now for a party night right here. View the full article

Last year, the Disney Conservation Fund (DCF) introduced its Reverse the Decline, Increase the Time initiative, in part to help populations of threatened animals around the world. The DCF provides grants and applies the expertise of cast members to address the threats facing 10 endangered species in the wild, including great apes. September 24 is the first World Gorilla Day, and we are celebrating by sharing information about Grauer’s gorillas, one of the most endangered primates in the world. As part of Disney’s commitment to conservation, we have supported sanctuaries in the Democratic Republic of Congo, including Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education (GRACE) Center, a place for young great apes orphaned by poaching or the international wildlife trade. Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment Cast Members have worked with GRACE for years, helping establish its facilities and advance their training. Recently, staff members reached out to the Disney team when they were puzzled by an increase in the number of gorillas with dental issues at the center. Believing this to be a result of their diet, Dr. Natalie Mylniczenko, Disney veterinarian and GRACE veterinary consultant, contacted Shannon Livingston, Disney assistant animal nutritionist, and began to delve deeper. The gorillas eat mostly vegetation, but the GRACE staff supplements a small part of their diet with a nutrient-rich, porridge-like substance that can stick to the gorilla’s teeth, potentially causing tooth decay. Shannon set out to make a nutrient-filled biscuit that could replace the porridge and be less likely to stick to their teeth. Shannon started experimenting in her home kitchen using ingredients that could be locally sourced in the community surrounding GRACE. Using baking recipes with limited ingredients as a starting point, she came up with a simple recipe. To ensure they were tasty, Shannon made biscuits for the gorillas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. These first taste-testers loved them so much, they were “singing” (making content humming sounds) while feeding. When Dr. Natalie took the recipe to GRACE, she helped make the first batch of biscuits and said the gorillas at GRACE enjoyed them so much, they were singing, too. You can help support Disney’s efforts to reverse the decline of gorillas and other animals by taking part in Connect to Protect, a mobile adventure in which guests participate in conservation ‘missions’ with a digital scientist while exploring Pandora – The World of Avatar and helping protect the habits of at-risk animals here on Earth. To learn more about gorillas and other animals you can see at Walt Disney World Resort, visit DisneyAnimals.com. PHOTOS COURTESY OF GRACE. View the full article