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Disney’s Animal Kingdom is delighted to announce the birth of a Nile hippopotamus, the first hippo born at the park in 13 years. Born at approximately 10 p.m. last night, the calf is staying close to mom Tuma. Our animal care team is giving Tuma and her calf plenty of room to nurse and bond, so the calf’s gender and weight may not be known for some time. Typically, a newborn calf weighs between 60 and 110 pounds. This birth marks another success for our dedicated and highly trained team of Disney animal care experts. Tuma and her mate Henry were chosen to breed through the Species Survival Plan (SSP), which is overseen by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Nile hippopotamus is a vulnerable species with a declining population. This birth is an important contribution to the worldwide conservation and understanding of these amazing creatures. We hope guests will see this adorable hippo calf and be inspired to take action to protect them in the wild. You may see Tuma and her calf on Kilimanjaro Safaris and also during the Wild Africa Trek experience. To learn more about hippos, visit DisneyAnimals.com. View the full article

Happy New Year! We hope this year has started out great for you! Now it’s time to kick back, relax, and catch up on another week of Disney food news! Rose Gold Ears Cupcake The 2018 Epcot Festival of the Arts kicked off January 12 and we have all the Food Booth menus and food photos! See our Best of the Fest here!! There’s a new ROSE GOLD EARS CUPCAKE?!??! And your favorite Le Cellier Cheddar Cheese Soup can now be had for a snack credit! It’s time to the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Use code WDW2018 at check-out to get 25% off the cover price! We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News We reviewed the new Rose Gold Ears Cupcake at Epcot’s Sunshine Seasons! Check out our Festival of the Arts Best of the Fest! Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup and Poutine are now on the menu at Epcot’s Refreshment Port. We reviewed Paddlefish at Disney Springs. We launched the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-book! Bookings are now available for special events and more at the Disney California Adventure Food and wine Festival! Kringla Bakeri in Epcot’s Norway is closing soon for refurbishment! Chef Kevin Dundon has left Raglan Road Irish Pub. The menus have been released for Enzo’s Hideway Tunnel Bar and Restaurant in Disney Springs! Check out the new pilot program that allows guests to purchase theme park extras. First look and review of Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante! We have a first look of The Edison at Disney Springs! We showcased some of the must-have drinks for 2018! Check out our review of Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter. Check out the workshops and seminars at the Epcot Festival of the Arts. The dates have been announced for the 2018 Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival. New DFB YouTube videos: 5 Disney Dining Myths Debunked and Cinderella’s Royal Table vs Akershus Royal Banquet vs Bon Voyage Adventure Breakfast. 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: 5 Disney Dining Myths Debunked Have you subscribed to the DFB YouTube Channel? We’ve got great content going up twice a week showcasing our adventures in Disney World and Disneyland! This week, we’re sharing our latest video – 5 Disney Dining Myths Debunked! Check it out — and don’t forget to subscribe here. Deal of the Week: 25% off the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2018 is here and we’re celebrating the grand launch with 25% off the cover price with promo code WDW2018. What’s in the DFB Guide? The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2018 Edition is full of need-to-know details, tools, and features to make your trip go smoothly, including: A 5-Step Strategy for Disney Dining Planning, covering everything you need to know from budgeting and booking to kids’ meals, dining discounts, and fireworks. An in-depth analysis of the Disney Dining Plan and whether it’s right for YOU. A comprehensive and in-depth look at EVERY Disney World restaurant, kiosk, bar, and lounge, including our personal tips to ensure a positive and stress-free dining experience. Four free, downloadable worksheets for planning your trip. These worksheets are designed to help you execute all the steps of planning the perfect Disney dining experience. And they’re reusable for all of your future trips! Seven sample one-day dining itineraries for a head-start on planning. A comprehensive index of bars and lounges WITH reviews. An often under-appreciated option for both dining and entertainment, the e-Book devotes a whole index to the topic. The ability to be read on your mobile device or computer! It’s fully portable right in your pocket! With over 600 pages of full-color photos, tips on the best restaurants, an ENTIRE chapter on snacks — including the best snack credit values throughout the parks and resorts — and a full break-down of whether the Disney Dining Plan is worth it for your family, now’s the time to get started planning your next Disney World vacation! 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Sample Pages Here’s Just Some Of What We’ve Updated In the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book: Fully updated prices and restaurant info for 2018 visitors Updated details about available discounts and deals at Disney World restaurants DFB’s own 2018 recommendations for everything from table service to counter service to snacks and more Over 600 pages of updated Disney Dining advice, details, and information Disney Dining Plan Analysis – Is it right for your family? Can you really save money? NEW Disney food and restaurant photos Updated reviews of all Disney World restaurants, kiosks, bars, and lounges including all new eateries An updated chapter focused on one of the most popular Disney dining topics: Snacks in the theme parks and resorts A comprehensive section of What’s NEW in Disney Food, including new restaurants, new menus, restaurant closures, and more Updated information about the My Magic+ Planning System that Disney rolled out in 2013, and how it may affect your 2018 Disney plans Changes coming to Disney World in 2018 and 2019! As you can see, this is a labor of love and we put a ton of time and effort (and research) into ensuring that we are sharing with you the most relevant, up to date Disney Food Information that’s available. We do this so that you can plan your own Disney visit with confidence, and have the trip of a lifetime, every time. And right now you can save 25% off the cover price with promo code WDW2018! DFB Reader Finds If you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or around Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday. We shared a review of Paddlefish at Disney Springs this week, and DFB fan RunDisnerd also recently dined there. He says “The fried green tomatoes, lobster corn dog, scallops, and crab boil were amazing. Lived up to the hype.” Glad you enjoyed it! Those Lobster Corn Dogs! One of our favorite snacks is the Baked Mac and Cheese at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. DFB fan Melissa Cannan says “I had this fabulous Mac and cheese at the AK thanks to the DFB! It was wonderful and I wouldn’t have known if you hadn’t shown it!” Always happy to help! A great snack! Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix shared tips on How to Bring Trader Sam’s Home! WDW for Grownups shared tips for carb-loading before a runDisney race. Disney Parks Blog shared a recipe for the Lumpia from Pongu Pongu in Pandora. Disney Family shared a recipe for Mickey Snowflake Linzer 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 24, 2017 Disney Food Post Round-Up: December 10, 2017 Disney Food Post Round-up: December 17, 2017 View the full article

The Epcot International Festival of the Arts is underway at the Walt Disney World Resort this weekend. And to help Disney Parks Blog readers, we shared several stories packed with valuable festival information, including our top 5 “can’t miss” experiences at this year’s event. Our week’s coverage also included a special foodie guide to the Festival. Alex shared some of the many artistic dishes that will dazzle your taste buds in his original story. The festival runs from January 12 to February 19 – and this year, it’s seven days per week with the Disney on Broadway series running Fridays through Mondays. For more information, visit our special page. And many of you know that Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is coming to the Disneyland Resort and the Walt Disney World Resort in 2019. This week, we shared “9 Things We Know About Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Walt Disney World So Far” and added it to our dedicated Star Wars at Disney Parks page. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Introducing the 2018 Disney Parks Moms Panelists – In its 11th year, and just in time for vacation planning season, The Disney Parks Moms Panel welcomes 11 new panelists to share their authentic experiences and planning tips with Guests seeking real advice on planning a magical Disney Vacation. Reimagined World of Disney Stores Coming to Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts in 2018 – Shopping at Disney Parks is an adventure with hundreds of shops and boutiques to explore. The largest of these shops, World of Disney, serves as the “must see” destination for finding many beloved souvenirs from stylish apparel to home décor. Reservations Available Now for Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival Events – The popular Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival returns for a limited time – March 2 through April 12 – bringing a celebration of the ingredients that make life in the Golden State so spectacular. The festival’s signature events are can’t-miss experiences that open your senses to delicious California cuisine in new ways – and reservations are available now! Marvel Day at Sea Cruises Now Departing from Miami – Marvel Day at Sea returned to the Disney Magic, now departing from Miami. This action-packed event continues on eight Caribbean sailings through April, occurring on one day of these special cruises. New Ways to Experience the Worlds of Pixar and Frozen at Tokyo Disney Resort – In October, we shared details about three new winter events coming to Tokyo Disney Resort – Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Fantasy, Pixar Playtime and Duffy’s Heartwarming Days – and this week they’re finally here! Book Your Signature Photo Experience at Disneyland Resort – Have you ever imagined having one of the immersive lands in Disneyland park or Disney California Adventure park as a backdrop for you to take photos outside of posted park hours? Well, it’s possible at Mickey’s Toontown and Cars Land! View the full article

The second annual Epcot International Festival of the Arts kicked off TODAY! This still-new Festival debuted in 2016, celebrating the Culinary, Visual, and Performing Arts. And you can enjoy it in Epcot every day now through February 19th! 2018 Festival of the Arts The Culinary Arts are primarily celebrated through the event’s Food Booths. Like the Marketplace Booths for the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, Food Studios bring enhanced food offerings to Festival guests, but with a unique focus on presentation for the dishes. And today we’ve got our Best of the Fest! Click over to our Food Studios Page to see pictures of every single dish at the Festival of the Arts! The list of ways to enjoy the Festival is expansive, including — but not limited to — catching the Disney on Broadway Concert Series, checking out art exhibits, and channeling your own inner artist at a Workshop or Seminar. The opportunities are numerous and varied, so you’ll want to explore all that the Festival has to offer in advance. Check out all of the info for the Festival of the Arts here! The Food Studios have greatly expanded this year, with many more in addition to the original eight from 2016. You can see all the menus, prices, and food pictures here, but in the meantime we’re letting you know the very best tastes of the Festival of the Arts! What to Eat at the 2018 Epcot Festival of the Arts We ate it ALL, and these were our favorites from the day!! Enjoy! BLT at Deconstructed Dish The Deconstructed Dish is a new Studio for 2018; however, it features deconstructed dishes similar to those found at last year’s E=AT², such as the Deconstructed BLT. Deconstructed BLT with Crispy Pork Belly, Tomato Jam, and Soft Poached Egg Sous Vide Poulet Rouge at Pop Eats Pop Eats! has a new selection that makes our Best of the Fest list. The Sous Vide Poulet Rouge Chicken Roulade with Apples and Sage. Sous Vide Poulet Rouge Chicken Roulade Served with Warm Brie Fondue, Blueberry Meringue, and Beet Gel and garnished with Apple and Beet Chips. Tacos de Puerco at El Artista Hambriento The returning El Arista Hambriento (The Hungry Artist) in the Mexico Pavilion is home to Tacos de Puerco. Tacos de Puerco Two Corn Tortillas with Slow-roasted Pork Shoulder marinated in Ancho Paste, served with Sweet Plantain Purée and garnished with Pea Tendrils. Crispy Fried Shrimp in a Wonton Chip Lotus Flower at Painted Panda In China, The Painted Panda is serving a Crispy Fried Shrimp in a Wonton Chip Lotus Flower. Crispy Fried Shrimp in a Wonton Chip Lotus Flower There’s a spicy sauce on this one that reminds me of firecracker shrimp! Braised Short Rib at Cuisine Classique A favorite returning item is the Red Wine Braised Short Rib with Parsnip Purée, Broccolini, Baby Tomatoes and Aged Balsamic at Cuisine Classique. Braised Beef Short Rib The balsamic is a little heavy on this one, but it’s still a great dish. Crema Fitta at L’Arte di Mangiare The Crema Fitta, Pesche e Rucola Pesto, Ciliege di Amarasca is in Italy at L’Arte di Mangiare. Crema Fitta, Pesche e Rucola Pesto, Ciliege di Amarasca: Cream Fritters, Peach and Arugula Pesto and Amarena Cherries These are fried Cream Fritters, with Peach and Arugula Pesto and Amarena Cherries. Usually Italy doesn’t really deliver at these festivals, but I was happily surprised by this one, and would greatly recommend!! Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate Flight at The Artist’s Table It’s back! Don’t pass up the Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate Flight at The Artist’s Table. Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate Flight Thick. Decadent. Basically, take three chocolate bars — White, Milk, and Dark — and melt them down. Then drink them. They are so rich that they are shareable! Hummus Trifle at Mosaic Canteen In Morocco, the Mosaic Canteen serves a Hummus Trifle! This was one DFB reviewers FAVORITE of the day. Hummus Trifle This layered Hummus topped with Spiced Beef, Pine Nuts and Dry Cherries, and served with Pita Chips is a great value for your Disney Dining Plan snack credit, too. Saumon en Croute Façon Paul Bocuse at L’Art du Cuisine Francaise In France, Saumon en Croute Façon Paul Bocuse is featured at L’Art du Cuisine Francaise. Saumon en Croute Façon Paul Bocuse This salmon in a Puff Pastry Crust, Paul Bocuse-style, with Spinach and Beurre Blanc Sauce was extremely flavorful, super adorable, and straight up delicious. I don’t even LIKE salmon! Wild Mushroom Risotto at Masterpiece Kitchen One of our favorite returning dishes at Masterpiece Kitchen is the Wild Mushroom Risotto with Aged Parmesan, Truffle Shavings, and Zinfandel Reduction. This is basically Le Cellier’s mushroom risotto, I think, so it’s classic. Calpico Yogurt Strawberry Swirl Sake at Takumi Table Takumi Table features the Calpico Yogurt Strawberry Swirl Sake. This was one of our favorite cocktails of the day! Beautiful and delicious. Calpico Yogurt Strawberry Swirl Sake Beer Flight at Decadent Delights Our favorite beer flight — the Neapolitan beer at Decadent Delights. This was a great variation in styles, which I think is critical in a flight. Moves from a heavy stout to a light strawberry blonde. Beer Flight Cloudem Sparkling Wine at Pop Eats The Cloudem wine at Pop Eats this year is a fruity variety. But it still has that amazing glitter action ;-D I really did enjoy the flavors here. Cloudem Sparkling Wine Frosé at L’Art du Cuisine Francaise France throws its hat into the Frosé ring at L’Art du Cuisine Francaise. The Frozen Côtes de Provence Rosé Wine with Grey Goose Vodka and Peach Purée is a winner. But we’d expect nothing less from the resident France festival slush. Frosé Honorable Mentions Mediterranean Flat Bread at Mosaic Canteen Mosaic Canteen in Morocco showcases a Mediterranean Flat Bread with Zaatar, Olive Oil Artichoke, Olives, Mozzarella and Feta Cheese. This was a winner for taste and value. Mediterranean Flat Bread with Zaatar, Olive Oil Artichoke, Olives, Mozzarella and Feta Cheese Popcorn Pairing Flight at The Painter’s Palate Because popcorn. And Beer. The Popcorn Pairing Flight at The Painter’s Palate is simple but creative. Popcorn Pairing Flight Trio of Savory Croissant Doughnuts at The Painter’s Palate At The Painter’s Palate, the trio of Savory Croissant Doughnuts includes: Whipped Boursin Garlic and Fine Herbs Cheese with Fresh Herbs, Chicken Salad with Shaved Fennel and Fresh Herbs, Spicy Tuna with Wasabi and Seaweed Salad Trio of Savory Croissant Doughnuts Chocolate Easels at The Painter’s Palate Epcot takes Art as Food the extra step in chocolate paintings. You’ll want to check out the Chocolate easels at The Painter’s Palate. Mickey White Chocolate Painting This year, choose between the White Chocolate Figment Puzzle on an Artist Palette, Mickey and Pluto White Chocolate Painting with Chocolate Easel (pictured), and the Festival of the Arts White Chocolate Painting with Chocolate Easel. The Frida Guava Margarita and Diego Passion Margarita at El Artista Hambriento El Arista Hambriento (The Hungry Artist) in the Mexico Pavilion features two tasty adult beverages. Frida Guava Margarita Diego Passion Margarita It’s no secret how much we love margaritas and we found two tasty versions at the Festival. The Frida Guava Margarita and Diego Passion Margarita on the rocks. Cheers! And THAT’S the Best of the Festival of the Arts! But remember, the fun doesn’t stop here. Experiences at the Festival of the Arts include live entertainment throughout Epcot (including the Disney on Broadway Concert Series), art exhibits, complimentary seminars, hands-on workshops, and even more Festival Fun. Check out all of the information for the Festival of the Arts here! We’ll see you from the 2018 Epcot International Festival of the Arts again soon! Are you planning to attend the Festival of the Arts this year? 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! 2018 Epcot Festival of the Arts Booth Menus Best of the Fest: What to Eat at the Epcot International Festival of the Arts! News! 2018 Epcot Festival of the Arts Dates View the full article

It’s time to sneak underground into Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar and Restaurant in Disney Springs! Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar and Restaurant The final component of the newest trio of Italian eateries in Disney Springs — the other two being the already open Pizza Ponte and Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante — is now officially open to guests! We explored the space with our First Look last week. And last night we were there for the official opening! We’ll be posting our review of Enzo’s VERY soon, with the full scoop on Appetizers… Salumi e Formaggi Entrees… Pasta Entree … and Desserts! Coppe Gelati Sundae But to tide you over in the meantime, here’s a peek at Enzo’s Smuggled and Stashed Collection. Enzo’s Smuggled and Stashed Collection Menu So, take a look around, peruse the menu, and start planning your own first visit to Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar and Restaurant! Is Enzo’s Hideaway on your Must-Try list? 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: Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert Menus Released for Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar and Restaurant First Look! Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar and Restaurant in Disney World News: Reservations for The Edison, Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, and Enzo’s Hideaway in Disney World Now on OpenTable View the full article

This week some of the most exciting images we shared came from Shanghai Disneyland, where Rex and Trixie made their debut on the construction site at the soon-to-debut Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land. These beloved dinosaur toys from the popular Disney·Pixar “Toy Story” series will appear as part of Rex’s Racer in the new land. Check out Tom Smith’s full blog post on this exciting milestone arrival. View the full article

Le Cellier Cheddar Cheese Soup fans, rejoice! Now there’s a quick service option so you can get your fix without expending two signature Disney Dining Plan credits! Thanks to the Refreshment Port, Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup is now available (and snack credit eligible!). Refreshment Port Menu Oh — and there’s Poutine! You know I had to get into this ASAP! Cheddar Cheese Soup and Poutine The Poutine is unlike anything at Le Cellier, but the base of French Fries is covered in Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup and Cheese Curds! So while traditional poutine has brown gravy, we totally support and celebrate the use of the soup. I was skeptical at first, but it really is DELICIOUS with the soup on top! Weird, right? Poutine The Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup is identical to the Le Cellier version — complete with Applewood Smoked Bacon. And we know some of you enjoy a good pretzel roll for dunking, so we recommend grabbing a pretzel en route to the soup. Say, from Germany, where the pretzels are jumbo and perfectly suited to the soup. Cheddar Cheese Soup And if you’re not able to get your cold little hands on this warm bowl of soup, there’s always this recipe so you can make it at home! Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! The 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, is now available! With more than 650 pages, the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to order your copy of the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2018 to save 25% today! Use code WDW2018 at check-out for a 25% off the cover price! Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Any Cheddar Soup and Poutine fans out there? Give us a holler 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: DIY Disney Food: Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup from Le Cellier Le Cellier Cheddar Cheese Soup…to go? Review: Spicy Chicken and Cheddar Poppers at Epcot’s Refreshment Port View the full article

As we continue to celebrate the 20th anniversary of ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World Resort, we have even more exciting news to share. Today we officially opened the doors to a new multi-purpose arena at the sports complex, further expanding the 220-acre sports venue that is widely regarded as the leading facility for youth sports in America. ESPN Wide World of Sports executives and some of our key stakeholders helped mark the occasion with a special dedication ceremony featuring a giant ribbon-cutting, plus a cheerleading routine with Minnie Mouse in her new cheerleader uniform amid a blast of streamers. In the coming months and years, the 300,000-square-foot venue, named The Arena at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, will host a variety of sports for girls and boys, such as basketball, volleyball, gymnastics and, in particular, cheerleading and dance, starting with the prestigious UCA & UDA College Cheerleading and Dance Team National Championship taking place through Sunday. In fact, the 8,000-seat arena is one of the largest in the country designed specifically for cheer and dance events, and will accommodate nearly 5,000 athletes for the College Cheer Championship this weekend. Look for more exciting news about the sports complex this year as we continue to expand the portfolio of outdoor sports and add more high-profile events similar to the upcoming NFL Pro Bowl Week. Here are some pictures from the new arena dedication moment: View the full article

Just in case you haven’t heard about the mayhem surrounding Rose Gold Minnie Mouse Ears in Disney Parks (on both coasts!), here’s the skinny… Rose Gold Minnie Ears! The minute Rose Gold Minnie Ears hit Disney Parks merchandise locations, the shops could not — and still can not — keep them on the shelves! Folks spent time hovering online waiting for updates about their return and scarfing them up in numbers. You could say they’re kindofa BIG DEAL. MORE Rose Gold Ears! Thankfully, Disney has continued the trend. Only this time, they’ve done so in CUPCAKE form! Currently at Sunshine Seasons in the Land Pavilion (in Epcot’s Future World), guests can find the Rose Gold Ears Cupcake! And it’s gorgeous. Every bit as pretty as its namesake Ears. Rose Gold Ears Cupcake And perhaps you’ve noticed with the same glee that I have… there’s a TON of frosting on this baby! It’s vanilla buttercream — no cream cheese or other added flavors here. The cake itself is vanilla and chocolate marble and just what we’ve come to expect from a Disney cupcake. Rose Gold Ears Cupcake The rose gold ears and bow are fondant, so you’ll mostly get sugar with maybe a hint of marshmallow flavor from the garnish. But remember, even though it’s technically edible… fondant never wins any flavor contests. Its primary role is for looks, and here it is accomplishing its task quite well! Tasty, Instagram-ready, and loaded with frosting… what more could you want in a cupcake? Hopefully it will stick around at Sunshine Seasons at least a bit longer than the actual Rose Gold Ears have been able to stay on the shelves! Are you on the Rose Gold bandwagon? Tell us about your latest Disney obsession 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: Win a Pair of Rose Gold Minnie Ears — 3 Chances to Win! Snack Series: Guava Cream Cheese Cupcake at Epcot’s Sunshine Seasons Guest Review: Orange Cupcake at Sunshine Seasons in Epcot View the full article

The new Disneyland After Dark event series kicks off next week with Throwback Nite! A limited amount of tickets remain for this first after-hours event, so here are the top 5 reasons you need to get yours now! 1. Mood-Setting Music – You can’t fully experience yesteryear without the sounds that filled the air, and Throwback Nite will surround you with the tunes of this magical time. Main Street, U.S.A. – As soon as you enter, you will be met by the dulcet tones of the Four Seasons, as a tribute band performs live at the Main Street Station. Central Plaza – A live “on location” radio DJ provides the music you will hear throughout the park, and she will even take your song requests and dedications! “it’s a small world” – A live swing and jazz band will lead an energetic dance party where guests of all ages will be invited to dance to the classic tunes of era. Mark Twain Riverboat – Those looking for a more relaxing mood can board the Mark Twain Riverboat for a musical trip around the Rivers of America. A small piano and solo singer provide the intimate soundtrack, serenading guests with the hits of the era’s crooners like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. Passengers are, of course, invited to grab their sweetheart, step out onto the deck and sway the night away under the stars. Throwback Nite Spotify Playlist – Step back in time and visit the classic past of Disneyland with this Disneyland After Dark – Throwback Nite event-inspired playlist. These hand-selected songs will take you on a trip down memory lane to the debonair days of the ‘50s and ‘60s. 2. Special Food and Beverage – Snack like it’s 1955 with these special menu items throughout Disneyland park. Stage Door Café: Golden-fried pepper jack mac & cheese bites topped with Walt’s Chili Bengal Barbecue: Kalua Pork – Brined and shredded pork over ginger-lemongrass jasmine rice with spicy hoisin sauce and pineapple salsa Royal Street Veranda: Chicken Pot Pie in a Bread Bowl – Hearty, creamy soup with tender chunks of chicken and vegetables in a sourdough bread bowl Mint Julep Bar: Dreamsicle Mickey Beignets – Beignets coated in orange creamsicle glitter sugar Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor: Hot Fudge Cake Sundae – Vanilla ice cream sandwiched between devil’s food cake, covered in hot gudge and garnished with whipped cream and a cherry 3. Commemorative Event Merchandise – Available only during Disneyland After Dark! Tees, ornament and tumbler will be available at Le Petit Chalet in Fantasyland and Disney Showcase on Main Street, U.S.A. 4. Retro-Inspired Fashion – Show off your spiffy duds and come dressed to impress! 5. Limited Availability – Don’t miss your chance to be part of this special event! Did I mention a limited amount of tickets remain? Get yours now! View the full article

Robert Iger, the chief executive of Walt Disney Co., saw his total compensation decline 17% in the recently concluded fiscal year to $36.3 million, according to the company’s latest proxy statement filed Friday to the Securities and Exchange Commission. The drop from last year’s $43.9 million was... View the full article

There are no real ifs, ands, or buts about it: Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is expensive. Everything from traveling to Orlando to booking a hotel room to buying the park tickets is costly, and the prices are only rising each and every year. For some, it may almost seem like that dream vacation... View the full article

The Edison, a lavish, “Industrial Gothic”- themed restaurant and entertainment venue, opened at Disney Springs at the Walt Disney World Resort earlier this month. The Edison features multiple themed areas for guests to explore, such as the Lab performance space, The Ember Parlour, Telegraph Lounge, The Patent Office, The Tesla Lounge, The Radio Room, and the Waterfront Patio. Open for lunch and dinner, The Edison treats guests to a contemporary American fare menu of items like Pork Belly Pops, Crispy Fried Chicken, and The Edison Burger. The Edison’s beverage lineup focuses on artfully crafted cocktails, interesting beers and wines, and house-made punches that serve from two to 10 guests. The Edison also features nightly entertainment, which ranges from live DJs, musicians, aerialists and dancers. The Edison is now open Sunday-Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Thursday-Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. Guests at The Edison must be 21 years or older starting at 10 p.m. Thursday-Saturday nights. There is a cover charge of $15 per guest beginning at 10 p.m. Additionally, The Edison has an enforced dress code Thursday-Saturday evenings beginning at 10 p.m. (men must wear slacks, jeans or dress shorts. No ball caps, sleeveless shirts or flip-flops are permitted. Jackets are optional). For a full look inside The Edison, check out the video above. View the full article

Churro Tots From Disney Parks | Walt Disney World View the full article

It’s finally here!! We’ve kicked off the second Epcot International Festival of the Arts. Back by popular demand, the Festival starts on Jan. 12 and runs all the way to Feb. 19. This year’s fest is seven days per week with the Disney on Broadway series running Fridays through Mondays. Here are some of the highlights you should NOT miss! 5. Workshops/Seminars – A plethora of different offerings spotlight this year’s Odyssey Festival Center. Guests can learn to draw Disney animated characters; get tips on taking the perfect photos; and study a host of artistic genres including acrylics, watercolors, musical composition, storytelling and even floral arranging. The seminars are included with Epcot admission and are generally 30 minutes; and the workshops have a nominal fee but last 75 minutes and include hands-on training and a cool take-away. Seminars can be reserved day-of at the Odyssey Festival Center. Workshops can be booked in advance by calling (407) WDW-TOUR. 4. Kids’ Activities – Younger guests will discover lots of activities including “Figment’s Brush with the Masters,” a scavenger hunt through the countries of World Showcase. They can also grab a paintbrush and join in on the fun as they help create a wall mural at Expression Section in World Showcase Plaza; and there is even an interactive kids “chalk art” area this year. 3. Artful Photo Ops – Put yourself into classic masterworks of art and take the perfect selfie. This year’s newest photo ops allow guests to step into Boticelli’s “Birth of Venus” and “picture” themselves in an homage to Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. 2. Food Studios – With more culinary options this year, guests can find edible works of art including a basil- scented salmon roulade with purple rice and Romesco sauce; wild mushroom risotto with aged parmesan, truffle shavings and Zinfandel reduction; and a deconstructed Reuben sandwich, with shredded corned beef, Thousand Island dressing, pickled red cabbage and a rye curl. And the sweets are just as tempting with my favorite being the Pop’t Art cookie with strawberry filling. 1. Disney on Broadway Series – So sue me – I’m a HUGE musical theater fan. The fact that we have seven superstar performers is so exciting for me. 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 disneyworld.com/ArtfulEpcot or call 407-WDW-DINE or 407-939-3463. And keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for updates throughout the Festival. *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

A land of oversized toys where a slinky-dog roller coaster shoots you past a tower of monster Jenga blocks and Toy Story characters. A harrowing chase through San Francisco with the characters from “Fast and the Furious.” A ride up the side of a waterfall — before a 42-foot drop, then a giant splash. ... View the full article

According to wdwmagic, Kringla Bakeri og Kafe in Epcot’s Norway Pavilion will close on February 4th to begin a refurbishment. Kringla Bakeri og Kafe When the refurbishment is complete this summer, guests will be able to enjoy an expanded Kringla Bakeri. School Bread Fret not, School Bread diehards (like myself!)… you won’t have to go without one of the Pavilion’s most beloved treats, as Midnattsol Bakeri will be open as a temporary location and will serve it along with other popular items from Kringla. Ha det from Epcot’s Norway! Source: wdwmagic.com Are you excited for an expanded Kringla Bakeri? 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: Review: New Items (and a Classic) at Kringla Bakeri og Kafe in Epcot’s Norway Pavilion Review: Troll Horn and Rice Cream at Kringla Bakeri og Kafe in Epcot’s Norway Snack Series: NEW Viking Mousse from Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe in Epcot’s Norway View the full article

A limited time pilot program launching on January 12th allows guests who are eligible for Disney Signature Services to purchase a Theme Park Extra for $50 (plus tax) per person in their traveling party per day. In order to participate, these guests must have purchased a theme park ticket for a minimum of three days (or an annual pass). Frozen Ever After Entrance in Epcot What’s included in the theme parks extras? According to the language used to promote the offering: Three additional FastPass+ selections per day. FastPass+ attractions and entertainment experiences, the number of selections you can make and available arrival windows are limited. The opportunity to reserve these three additional FastPass+ selections in more than one theme park when a valid Park Hopper option is also purchased with the ticket. A booking window of up to 90 days in advance for these three additional FastPass+ selections and the ability to book them at multiple top-tier attractions. Guests may not repeat the same FastPass+ attraction during a single day. Preferred viewing location for nighttime spectaculars, one per day, including Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom®Park, Illuminations: Reflections of Earth at Epcot®, Fantasmic! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios® and Rivers of Light at Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. Advanced reservation is required and availability of each nighttime spectacular preferred viewing location is limited. Selected guests are also reminded that: “All theme park Guests with valid theme park admission continue to receive up to three FastPass+ selections at a single park per day at no extra charge, as well as additional day-of in-park selections that may be reserved and redeemed one-at-a-time after those initial three selections are redeemed.” So what do you think of the offerings included in the pilot program? Is it something you’d be interested in participating in if presented the opportunity? We’d like to thank Small World Vacations for the heads up! Need help finding discounts and planning your Walt Disney World Vacation? The Disney Food Blog recommends Small World Vacations to help you save time, headaches and money. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you. They’re Platinum Authorized Disney Vacation Planners who have literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Click here for a no obligation price today! 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: Select Disney World Resort Restaurants Now Available to Reserve on OpenTable Fat-Free Fun: Disney Theme Park Snack and Play Toy Set News: Changes to Tables in Wonderland Dining Discount Program in Walt Disney World View the full article

Happy Friday, friends! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re discussing all things Disney Princesses! Rapunzel at the Bon Voyage Character Breakfast To be more specific, we’re talking about three of the most popular Character Meals where Disney Royalty come directly to your table to greet you as you dine. But when you’re trying to determine which one is best for you (and possibly your little princess or prince), how do you narrow it down between Cinderella’s Royal Table, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, and the Bon Voyage Adventure Breakfast? Well, that’s exactly what today’s video is designed to help you find out! 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: which dining experience would you choose to meet a Disney Princess? Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: DFB Video: Be Our Guest vs. Cinderella’s Royal Table New DFB Video Review: Rapunzel and Ariel Bon Voyage Breakfast in Disney World DFB Video: Best Disney World Sit Down Restaurants for Kids View the full article

Magic All Around - Sun & Fun Room Offer | Walt Disney World Resort View the full article

1. It Opens Next Year! – Opening date is currently set at 2019. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at the Disneyland Resort will debut first and the land at the Walt Disney World Resort will debut second. 2. It’s Set On The Planet Batuu – At Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, guests visit Batuu, a remote outpost on the galaxy’s edge was once a busy crossroads along the old sub-lightspeed trade routes, but its prominence was bypassed by the rise of hyperspace travel. Now home to those who prefer to stay out of the mainstream, it has become a thriving port for smugglers, rogue traders and adventurers traveling between the frontier and uncharted space. It’s also a convenient safe haven for those intent on avoiding the expanding reach of the First Order. (See rendering at the top). 3. You’ll Be Able To Fly The Millenium Falcon – One of the land’s two signature attractions will put you in the cockpit of the Millenium Falcon, piloting the ship, shooting blasters or preparing for hyperspace – all while completing a critical mission. But how you perform on the mission holds even bigger stakes: perform with skill and you may earn extra galactic credits, while bringing the ship back banged up could put you on the list of a bounty hunter. End up on Harkos’s list and you may face a problem if you show up at the local cantina. 4. A Second Attraction Planned for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Puts You On A Star Destroyer – This attraction, “built on a scale we’ve never done before,” will make guests feel like they’re inside a hangar bay in the middle of a battle between the First Order and the Resistance. (The name of this attraction is still yet to be released). 5. A Cantina Will Serve Up Blue Milk – Only one F&B item has been announced for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge so far and that’s the blue milk Luke Skywalker made famous in “Star Wars IV: A New Hope.” 6. Expect To See Characters From A Galaxy Far, Far Away – Guests will also encounter many familiar faces inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, including BB-8, Chewbacca, members of the First Order and – among many others – Rex, the troublesome pilot you may remember from the previous version of a certain Disney attraction who takes on a new role in this land as the DJ at the cantina. 7. The Land Will Feature Marketplaces & New Toys – Imagineers looked to the exotic markets of Istanbul and Marrakech for inspiration for the land’s marketplace, where guests can explore a rich collection of shops and merchant stalls. One stall will be overseen by a Toydarian, a creatures fans first encountered on Tatooine in “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace.” Here, guests will be able to discover all kinds of fun toys straight out of the Star Wars galaxy. 8. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Merchandise Has Already Been Released – The first Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge merchandise, available at select locations at the Disneyland and the Walt Disney World Resort, was released in December. The line currently consists of an assortment of men’s and women’s T-shirts, hats and more that feature faces and places familiar to Star Wars fans, including the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge logo, the Millennium Falcon, BB-8, DJ Rex and more. 9. You Can View A Portion Of The Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Model Right Now – A portion of the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge model is currently on display at the end of the Walt Disney Presents exhibit at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. For the latest on Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, be sure to bookmark our dedicated Star Wars content page. View the full article

Doreen Tracey, one of the original Mouseketeers on Disney’s popular after-school program “The Mickey Mouse Club” and later an associate of avante-garde composer and musician Frank Zappa, has died. She was 74. Tracey, who long described herself as the “black sheep” of the 1950s children’s show,... View the full article

Two of our favorite Toy Story characters made their debut at Shanghai Disneyland this week: Rex and Trixie! These beloved dinosaur toys from the popular Disney·Pixar film series will appear as part of Rex’s Racer at Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land when it opens in just a few months. Rex’s Racer is one of three major attractions coming to Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land, the first expansion project at Shanghai Disney Resort since opening in 2016. This seventh themed land will shrink guests down to the size of their favorite Toy Story characters and invite everyone into Andy’s backyard for an unforgettable adventure. In addition to Rex’s Racer, guests can also enjoy Slinky Dog Spin and Woody’s Round-Up, say hi to Andy’s toys at Meeting Post, shop at Al’s Toy Barn and dine inside Toy Box Café for an exciting and immersive day of play. The land will officially open on April 26! Stay tuned for more Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land updates right here on the Disney Parks Blog. View the full article

Have you ever imagined having one of the immersive lands in Disneyland park or Disney California Adventure park as a backdrop for you to take photos outside of posted park hours? Well, it’s possible at Mickey’s Toontown and Cars Land! Whether you want to celebrate a special milestone or just want to capture photos with your friends and family at Disneyland Resort, you can book a one-hour Signature Photo Experience: the Cars Land Signature Photo Experience or Mickey’s Toontown Signature Photo Experience! Both experiences offer you access to the land outside of posted operating hours for a one-hour photo session with a professional photographer and assistant. With the Cars Land Signature Photo Experience, you’ll enjoy access to Cars Land at Disney California Adventure park after park hours. The glowing neon lights and beautiful landscapes of Radiator Springs create the perfect backdrop for your photos! The Mickey’s Toontown Signature Photo Experience offers Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland park for you to capture photos before it officially opens for the day. This zany and colorful metropolis sets the ideal atmosphere for a lively photo session! For an extra cost during this experience, Mickey’s Toontown residents Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy or Pluto can join you for a 15-minute interactive photo op. No matter which Signature Photo Experience you choose, you’ll have access to an online gallery to download your final, enhanced images. Click here to learn more about Signature Photo Experiences and call 714-300-7520 (option #2) to make a reservation. Limited spaces are available. Experience includes a photo session only; no attractions will be available. Theme Park admission is not included. A deposit and contract are required at time of booking. Maximum 10 Guests per experience. No discounts will apply. Minors must be accompanied by an adult at least 18 years of age during the entire experience. Change and cancellation conditions apply. Online registration required. Experience and information, including prices, benefits and locations, are subject to restrictions and change without notice. View the full article

In October, we shared details about three new winter events coming to Tokyo Disney Resort – Anna and Elsa’s Frozen Fantasy, Pixar Playtime and Duffy’s Heartwarming Days – and today they’re finally here! Tokyo DisneySea is now home to the Pixar Playtime Pals show at the Piazza Topolino, and all of your favorite Disney·Pixar characters are making special appearances at the park. Join chef-in-training Remy in front of Zambini Brothers’ Ristorante for the Chef Remy & You show and catch Lightning McQueen during his Victory Lap through the American Waterfront. Pixar-inspired menus are also available at restaurants around the park and special themed merchandise is on sale. While you’re in the park, visit Duffy’s Heartwarming Days at the Cape Cod area of the American Waterfront, where Duffy, ShellieMay, Gelatoni and StellaLou are all waiting to say hello! New themed decorations transform the area and dozens of exclusive merchandise items are available for purchase. Over at Tokyo Disneyland, Anna and Elsa bring the enchanting world of ice and snow to you in Frozen Fantasy Parade and the Frozen Forever nighttime spectacular, all featuring favorite songs from the movie. New dishes inspired by the film are located at the Sweetheart Café, Grandma Sara’s Kitchen and Refreshment Corner, and Plaza Pavilion Restaurant, and new merchandise is on sale with designs of Anna, Elsa and Olaf. It’s all part of our best winter ever heading into the 35th Anniversary of Tokyo Disney Resort! View the full article