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Sophia Grace - Disney Cruise Line Vacation | Castaway Cay Overview View the full article

Disney Doodle is a series devoted to artists imagining what Disney characters would do if they had the chance to experience a Disney theme park – and this week we’re focusing on the heroic canine, Bolt. In the 2008 film “Bolt,” this pup was the faithful sidekick to Penny in a high-action television series – only, he didn’t know their adventures were made for TV and assumed his “superbark” superpower was real. In this week’s Disney Doodle, artist Ashley Taylor imagines what Bolt would do first if he visited a Disney Park. No doubt he’d be up for an adventurous thrill, so why not head to Test Track at Epcot? View the full article

At this point, LaShawn Merritt can almost feel the vibe of Copacabana Beach and hear the sounds of samba floating in the warm breeze. Rio is that close for Merritt, who will be leaving his training home at Walt Disney World Resort and headed to Brazil next week for the Rio Olympic Games, which begin August 5. Merritt, who won two gold medals at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, is one of several world-class sprinters training under former US Olympic track coach Brooks Johnson here at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Merritt will compete for Team USA in Rio in the 200-meter, 400-meter and 4×400-meter relay. We recently caught up with Merritt to talk about his experience training at the Disney sports complex, as well as his goals for Rio. Already he holds the fastest 400-meter time in the world this year, so he’s eyeing a gold medal and the 400-meter world record (43.18 seconds) set by Michael Johnson in 1999. And he could also become the first male sprinter since Johnson to win gold in the 400-meter and 200-meter in the same Olympics. View the full article

WHAT: Walt Disney World is trotting out special early access at another park. The Disney Early Morning Magic ticket is coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios. The offer puts visitors onto the theme park's Star Tours and Toy Story Mania attractions before the gates officially open. There are also... View the full article

Concluding our series on live performances at the Disneyland Resort, today we’re featuring the talented musicians who bring the parks to life through their tunes. Parade routes and theatrical venues aren’t the only places where Disneyland Resort guests encounter live entertainment – the parks are filled with many energetic and talented performers! At Disneyland park, the Disneyland Band, the Dapper Dans and the Refreshment Corner Piano Player all perform on Main Street, U.S.A. The gifted musicians of the All American College Band appear on Main Street, U.S.A. during the summer. Throughout the day in New Orleans Square, toe-tapping shows star the rowdy Bootstrappers, the lively Jambalaya Jazz Band and the mellow Royal Street Bachelors. And don’t miss the Pearly Band in Fantasyland and in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle! At Disney California Adventure park, Buena Vista Street comes alive with the Red Car Trolley News Boys and the swinging jazz combo Five & Dime. Green Army Men from “Toy Story” patrol the park with “Operation: Playtime!” and draw in new recruits with their upbeat percussion. And “DJ’s Dance ‘n’ Drive” is a spontaneous street party in Cars Land, designed to get everyone dancing with the vehicular music maker DJ. Which is your favorite live musical group at the Disneyland Resort? Tell us in the comments! View the full article

This is the third in a video series featuring behind-the-scenes info for new attractions at Walt Disney World. In this installment, we venture over to Magic Kingdom theme park for "Mickey's Royal Friendship Faire," a live stage show near the base of Cinderella Castle. The performance features... View the full article

HGTV’s “Property Brothers,” Drew and Jonathan Scott enjoyed a little brotherly love time at Walt Disney World Resort this week. The brother’s first stop was at Magic Kingdom Park to try Seven Dwarfs Mine Train for a non-stop laughing, fun-filled good time! View the full article

My shopping adventure around World Showcase at Epcot is now past the halfway point. You may recall I’ve been highlighting the unique shops and products found throughout each pavilion. This month, I fell in love with the graceful beauty of Italy Pavilion. At the entrance to Italy Pavilion stands a replica of St. Mark’s campanile (or bell tower) and a recreation of Doge’s Palace. It’s an iconic sight from across World Showcase lagoon that immediately transports you to Venice. The back of the pavilion is home to several delicious dining options, including Via Napoli and Tutto Italia Ristorante, among others. The statue of Neptune is a popular spot for group photos (I have many from my visits to the pavilion). I also love the Carretto Siciliano that was previously discussed on the Disney Parks Blog in 2011. The shops of Italy Pavilion include Il Bel Cristallo that’s home to exquisite Italian wares including Murano glass, jewelry, chic handbags, clothing and accessories. This shop also carries fragrances by Fendi, Prada, Acqua di Parma, Bvlgari and Valentino. In La Bottega Italiana, guests will find cookware, decorative items, Italian foodstuffs and apparel. The wine shop – Enoteca Castello – located next door offers an incredible select of Italian wines and spirits. In addition to other World Showcase Pavilions, these shops have a variety of Italian products. There are some items created especially for Italy Pavilion including apparel (the “That’s Amore” shirt with Mickey and Minnie Mouse is adorable) and drinkware. There was also a recent line of products inspired by Walt Disney’s “Pinocchio.” I love getting chocolate from this pavilion that’s sold either individually or as gift sets. My other favorite items are found in La Gemma Elegante. This shop is adjacent to Il Bel Cristallo and carries dazzling, handmade Venetian masks. You may be able to order select items from this pavilion using the free Shop Disney Parks mobile app. To download, please visit DisneyWorld.com/Shop. Take a look at several other products I found during my visit. Ciao! View the full article

Guests visiting Walt Disney World Resort in August will find several merchandise events. These special activities will be held in select locations throughout Disney Springs Marketplace and Epcot. Disney Springs July 29 – The second series for Vinylmation – Star Wars: The Force Awakens will be released in select locations including Disney’s Pin Traders, Star Wars Galactic Outpost, and Launch Bay Cargo in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Guests may also find this limited release mystery series on the Disney Parks online store. August 4-28 – Two new Precious Moments dolls will be released in August at Marketplace Fun Finds in Disney Springs Marketplace. The dolls were inspired by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. Guests can meet Precious Moments doll designer Linda Rick on August 12-13 at the location. August 10-14 – Artist Greg McCullough returns to The Art of Disney in August. He will be meeting with guests and signing artwork from 1:00 p.m. to 8 p.m. each day. Greg designed the artwork featuring Mickey Mouse dressed as a Jedi from Star Wars. August 11-14 – Guests can meet artist William Silvers in The Art of Disney from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. each day. His artwork features Disney characters such as Rapunzel from Disney’s “Tangled,” Bambi and friends from Walt Disney’s “Bambi” and more. William will also be at the location from August 18-21, 25-28. August 20 – We are releasing a figurine and ornament from the Disney Showcase Collection by Precious Moments at The Art of Disney. These items will only be released in select locations at Disney Parks. The ornament is titled “Faith, Trust And Pixie Dust,” and the figurine is titled “Imagination Has No Age.” Guests can meet Precious Moments Master Sculptor Hiko Maeda from noon to 2:00 p.m. and from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. August 20 – Artist Jasmine Becket-Griffith returns to WonderGround Gallery inside the Marketplace Co-Op from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Epcot August 4-5 – Guests can meet representatives from Kit Heath at The Queen’s Table in the United Kingdom Pavilion at World Showcase from noon to 7:00 p.m. August 12-14 & 26-29 – 12-7pm – Guests can check out the latest Yardley fragrance and beauty products and meet representatives from noon to 7:00 p.m., each day at The Queen’s Table. We will be offering bottle painting and personalization on August 13-14, 27-28. August 17-20 – Meet Fragrance designer Geir Ness from noon to 6:00 p.m. in The Puffin’s Roost at Norway Pavilion in World Showcase. Geir will showcase the latest items from his Laila fragrance and beauty collection. August 19 – Precious Moments Master Sculptor Hiko Maeda will meet guests at The Art of Disney in Future World from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. August 31-September 4 – Learn more about fragrances and cosmetics by Givenchy in the Plume et Palette shop at France Pavilion in World Showcase. View the full article

As we announced yesterday, Disney PhotoPass+ One Week is a great new way to for you to receive unlimited digital downloads of all Disneyland Resort PhotoPass photos in your account from a seven-consecutive-day period. And now, Disney PhotoPass Service has two more new ways for you to collect your Disneyland Resort memories: the Disney PhotoPass Collection and the Disney PhotoPass Collection + Disc! With these two new products, you can relive your Disneyland Resort vacation with access to all Disney PhotoPass photos in your account! You can take home special moments, from meeting a Disney friend to riding a favorite attraction. Check out what each product has to offer: Disney PhotoPass Collection ($99 plus tax) Digital downloads of all Disney PhotoPass photos in your account at time of redemption Voucher for a Dining Print Package (Voucher may not be redeemed online. See voucher for restrictions.) Disneyland Resort Gallery Disc, featuring more than 350 high-resolution professional photos from around Disneyland Resort This product can only be purchased at a Disney PhotoPass Sales Center, any dining location with PhotoPass Photographers and all attraction locations with on-ride PhotoPass photo capture. Disney PhotoPass Collection + Disc ($119 plus tax) DVD disc with all Disney PhotoPass photos in your account at the time of purchase. Voucher for a Dining Print Package (Voucher may not be redeemed online. See voucher for restrictions.) Disneyland Resort Gallery Disc This product can only be purchased at a Disney PhotoPass Sales Center. Digital downloads of your Disney PhotoPass photos will not be available unless the Disneyland mobile app is presented at time of purchase. With Disney PhotoPass+ One Day and the introduction of Disney PhotoPass+ One Week, the Disney PhotoPass Collection, and the Disney PhotoPass Collection + Disc, there’s a product that’s perfect for your Disneyland Resort visit! Disney PhotoPass Service and Disney PhotoPass+ are subject to the Disney PhotoPass and Disney PhotoPass+ terms found in https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-terms-conditions/. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos in your account will expire pursuant to the expiration policy at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-expiration-policy/. Downloads are restricted to personal use only. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate Theme Park admission required. Message, data and roaming rates may apply for Disneyland App. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first. View the full article

This is the beginning of our video series that chronicles some behind-the-scenes action from new attractions at Walt Disney World. We're starting at Epcot with Royal Sommerhus, the meet-and-greet area attached to the (also new) Frozen Ever After ride. The area certainly has a Scandinavian feel.... View the full article

LAKE BUENA VISTA – Indulge in some new experiences during the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic Oct. 28 and 29. The event features unlimited tastings at more than 40 stations featuring samples from the hotel’s restaurants and wine from more than 30 wineries. A new Sunday Champagne... View the full article

Sophia Grace - Disney Cruise Line Vacation | Disney Dream Overview View the full article

From registration to booking your travel to creating your costumes, there’s a lot that goes into a runDisney race weekend. Then there’s the training. I’ll admit, training is never the easiest part, but there’s nothing like a good playlist for motivation! I’m excited to introduce a new way to get prepared for your next runDisney race – themed running playlists! We’ve teamed up with Walt Disney Records to compile songs for Disneyland Half Marathon Weekend, Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend and Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend. The experts at Walt Disney Records picked a variety of songs, which really set the tone for each race weekend. Each playlist is already loaded in Spotify through the links provided below. Whether you listen to the playlist while you are running, packing or on the plane to the event or just want to listen to a great playlist, we have a few for you! Go to Spotify.com to sign in or sign up for an account and check out the Walt Disney Records profile for more Disney playlists! Below are the playlists you can find once you login. Go to Spotify.com to sign in or sign up for an account and check out the Walt Disney Records profile for more Disney playlists! Where will you listen to the new playlists? Share with us on our social media using the hashtag #runDisney! Twitter: @runDisney Instagram: @runDisney Facebook: @RunDisney YouTube: @runDisney View the full article

We recently spotted a few celebrities enjoying their vacaciones de verano at Walt Disney World Resort. Colombian soccer star Radamel Falcao met Baloo at Disney’s Animal Kingdom along with his wife Lorelai and daughters Dominique and Desirée. They enjoyed day and nighttime attractions and shows at the park. Jesse, part of the Mexican duo Jesse and Joy, celebrated his daughter’s birthday by visiting Epcot. Hanna, who turned 12, got a chance to meet Anna and Elsa at Royal Sommerhus and ride Frozen Ever After. And actress and TV host Patricia Manterola, took a break from her busy schedule to celebrate the third birthday of her twins Alesso and Matteo by visiting Mickey, in his summer attire, at Magic Kingdom Park. Along with older son Lucca, her mom, sister and husband, Patty enjoyed the different attractions at the iconic park before going to Disney’s Hollywood Studios to enjoy the new fireworks show, “Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular.” View the full article

Disney’s new film, “Pete’s Dragon” is set deep in the woods in the Pacific Northwest. It’s the story of Pete, a mysterious 10-year-old boy with no family and no home to speak of, who claims to live in the woods with a giant, green dragon named Elliot. Although your time in nature may not include exploring the forest with friendly dragons, research shows that children who spend time in nature are healthier and happier, and it’s widely believed that these outdoor experiences lead to kids caring about the planet throughout their lifetimes. In partnership with The Walt Disney Studios, our Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment team developed an activity packet to celebrate the release of the film. The packet, which is designed to connect families to the outdoors, includes tips on engaging kids in imaginative play as well as fun games and activities. You can download it for free at www.disney.com/petesdragon. In early August, Guests at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park can stop by the “Pete’s Dragon” activity table at Rafiki’s Planet Watch in front of the national parks map. Pick up a “Pete’s Dragon” button and take part in a puzzle game about our national parks. In the film, the character played by Bryce Dallas Howard is a ranger in a Pacific Northwest Park. The Disney Conservation Fund has supported local, state, and national parks through its initiative to Reverse the Decline of threatened wildlife and Increase the Time kids and families spend in nature. As part of Increase the Time, Disney is helping the National Park Foundation connect half a million kids with national park experiences by 2017. Through collaborations, experiences at Disney Parks and Resorts, storytelling and films like “Pete’s Dragon”, we are engaging young people in discovering the magic of nature and protecting the planet. See Disney’s “Pete’s Dragon” when it opens in U.S. theaters Aug. 12 in 3D! View the full article

Aloha, cousins! Welcome to Captain Cook’s at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort! Learn About: Captain Cook’s Polynesian Resort Disney World Restaurants The Polynesian is known for its delicious food, fireworks views and impeccable theming. Captain Cook’s is a lesser-known, tropical counter-service restaurant just a happy stop away from the Magic Kingdom, and it’s home to a few favorites including a budget-friendly version of Kona Cafe’s Tonga Toast! Captain Cook’s is the sole counter service at the Poly, and it’s chock full of tasty treats. Since its renovation in 2014, the famed Pineapple Dole Whip moved outside to the Pineapple Lanai and the restaurant got a refresh of the menu as well. Now, we’re seeing even more new items on the Captain Cook’s docket! Captain Cook’s entrance sign Let’s go inside and check out what’s new!! Atmosphere The Polynesian is hands down one of the best themed Disney resorts. From the moment you’re greeted with a lei and an “Aloha!” at the Great Ceremonial House, you know you’re in for a treat! Captain Cook’s Captain Cook’s is located on the ground floor of the Great Ceremonial House with plenty of seating indoors and outdoors overlooking the Lava Pool’s impressive volcano. Have a seat at Captain Cook’s! Outdoor Seating Outdoor Seating The rich browns and funky lighting really give off an island vibe, and the artwork on the wall is a nod to each of the South Pacific islands that the resort’s buildings are named after. Captain Cook’s definitely doesn’t feel like your standard quick-service cafeteria! Captain Cook’s Ordering Area Menus Tonga Travel Poster Closeup of the artwork Outside, the patio is surrounded by lush, tropical plants and cute little features like the tiki wooden statue below. The patio is covered, so it’s a really pleasant place to enjoy your meal on days that aren’t so hot. The gardens at the Polynesian are so well done that you’ll want to enjoy them! As a bonus, Captain Cook’s patio is close enough to the Tiki Terrace to hear live music in the evenings! Oh, hello! Eats Captain Cook’s is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but today’s updates are for lunch and dinner! You’ll notice in the photos that the restaurant has changed from serving its dishes on paper plates to paper boxes and cups, as well! Captain Cook’s menu The Seared Chicken Breast entree is a healthy – yet surprisingly filling and delicious – option! The chicken is served with two sides: a pineapple sambal and a red quinoa and edamame salad. Seared Chicken Breasts The chicken portion is pretty large and seasoned with black pepper, but the real flavor comes from the pineapple sambal! The sambal is a relish-like mixture of pineapple chunks and red chiles with a sweet and spicy flavor. As with most spice at Disney World, it’s pretty mild and safe for the spice-averse in your family! Seared Chicken Breasts and sides If you’re a quinoa fan, you know how filling it can be, and this entree is served with a heaping pile of it. Edamame is mixed in with the grain. It’s tasty together, and the contrasting colors are aesthetically pleasing. Quinoa Between the chicken, quinoa and edamame, you’re getting a punch of protein for only $8.99 that will definitely hold you over until your next meal without making you feel sluggish. Another fun new option is the Curried Seafood Stew! Curried Seafood Stew This tiny cup is packed with shrimp, mussels, scallops, red peppers and onions on a bed of sticky rice. There was really a lot more seafood in there than I expected, which made me happy! Seafood Stew Shrimp As you can tell, there’s more meat and veggies than sauce in this stew. The base of the stew is butter and an extremely mild curry. Closeup of stew If I could change anything, I would trade some of the butter flavor for a more powerful curry flavor, but, overall, I was really pleased with the portion size and amount of seafood! Rice Some of my favorite meals at the Polynesian restaurants include noodles, so I was excited to try the Pan Asian Noodles and Vegetables with Chicken. They were on the menu before, but now you can add chicken or shrimp making it a more substantial meal. I had plenty of seafood in the stew, so I went with chicken this time. Pan Asian Noodles and Vegetables with Chicken The noodles are mixed in with sliced chicken, onions, red peppers, edamame, baby corn and water chestnuts. This dish had a really great flavor – everything is mixed in a light garlic and chili sauce, which gave it, once again, a mild spice. I thought it was just enough to be tasty without having to chug water! Pan Asian Noodles closeup It might look like a small portion at first glance, but there was a ton of chicken in here, and it was actually pretty filling! I loved having all the fresh-tasting vegetables, and after a million meals with french fries at Disney World, it’s great to have something like noodles and veggies to mix it up. At last, my favorite new menu item at Captain Cook’s, the Pork Fried Rice. Pork Fried Rice This one was delicious!! It’s a mixture of fried rice, fried egg, scallions, red peppers and a big ‘ol serving of slow-roasted pulled pork. All of the ingredients were tossed with ashanti wing sauce, garlic, chili and worcestershire sauce, and this one was actually a little spicy! Pork Fried Rice closeup I really loved this one, and I’d even dare to say it’s my current favorite quick-service meal! This is a super hearty meal, and because everything is tossed in the sauces, it’s really flavorful. Overall Entertainment and quality food at an low price is not an easy thing to find at Disney World; and you don’t even need a reservation for Captain Cook’s, so I’d recommend checking it out! There are several options that stray from the normal quick-service fare, but there’re enough mild flavors and safe meals that everyone in your family can find something they like. So, what do you think? Is Captain Cook’s one of your favorite quick services or will you be visiting soon? Let us know what you’ll try 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: Photo Tour and Food Review: Captain Cook’s Reopens at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Photo Tour and Review: NEW Polynesian Village Resort Lobby, and Tiramisu Cupcake at Captain Cook’s #OnTheList: Tonga Toast at Captain Cook’s in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort View the full article

Wrapping up our series on original Disneyland attractions, today we take a look at one of the major expansions we’ve seen here at the Disneyland Resort … “The New Fantasyland” expansion of 1983. When designing the original Fantasyland, Walt Disney wanted to build a fairy tale village that would take guests into their favorite stories. But as the budget for Disneyland had nearly tripled, Walt had to scale back on this ambitious design and develop the area into a medieval fair, with banners and flags decorating the entrances to opening-day attractions like Snow White’s Adventures, Peter Pan’s Flight and Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride. But nearly thirty years later, “The New Fantasyland” expansion brought Walt’s original dream to life. The architecture and facade of each attraction became an extension of the stories that lie within. “The New Fantasyland” opened at Disneyland on May 25, 1983. Guests now enter Peter Pan’s Flight through a medieval English clock tower and embark on Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride at a country manor called Toad Hall. On the other side of King Arthur Carrousel, Bavarian or Alpine villages bring you into the worlds of Snow White and Pinocchio. “The New Fantasyland” elevated the storytelling of the entire area, combining architecture, horticulture and other details to create an immersive, fairy tale environment that is now the considered the quintessential Disney Parks experience. View the full article

You may think that you couldn’t possibly enjoy the Epcot Food and Wine Festival with kiddos along for the ride. But we think you totally can! While the festival is certainly a food lover’s paradise, there’s no reason that you can’t enjoy a day there with the younger set, too. After all, Epcot is first and foremost a theme park, so even during the Food and Wine Festival, you’ll find plenty of exhibits and entertainment geared toward the small fry. We love coming up with strategies that help you to enjoy eating your way through Walt Disney World, no matter who’s along for the ride. So if you like what you see here, be sure to check out our 2016 DFB Guide to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival for even more great tips on managing the event with kids along. In the meantime, check out these suggestions for making the festival fun for everyone in your party! Attend a Culinary Demonstration or Other Special Event If you have kids that are interested in what happens in the kitchen, consider checking out what Culinary Demonstrations are available at the Festival Center for the day. Kids are permitted to attend these events with a ticket (but aren’t served alcohol, obviously). We think it’s great fun, especially for older kiddos in your party. Who knows? A future chef may be born! Culinary Demo Featuring Chef Kevin Dundon If your budget allows, you may even want to check out the brand new Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It! Hands On Workshops. New in 2016, these events take place once a day, and offer guests the chance to get in on the action of exploring and creating. Interactive Workshops Will Take Place in the Chef’s Showcase at Festival Center While some of the events are decidedly adult-oriented, there are some fun options that are family friendly, like Sushi 101, making Chocolate Ganache Kisses, and Pasta Making. Hit Up the Marketplace Booths and Taste Your Way Around the World Hungry kids means that nobody’s gonna have a good time. So we suggest lunching your way Around the World as soon as the World Showcase Marketplace Booths open! Stop by the Brazil Booth for Escondidinho de Carne — Layered Meat Pie with Mashed Yucca! If your pack includes adventurous eaters, they’ll have fun getting to participate in choosing items for the whole group to enjoy. And if you have pickier eaters, no worries — there are plenty of crowd pleasing favorites, like the Schinkennudeln (Pasta Gratin with Ham and Cheese) at the Germany Booth. Schinkennudeln (Pasta Gratin with Ham and Cheese) Italy Booth options, like Pennete alla Parmigiana (Baked Ziti and Chicken Parmigiana, Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese) are always kid pleasing as well. Engage in Remy’s Hide and Squeak Scavenger Hunt What happens when you are still enjoying the Booths, but the kids are kinda over it? It’s the perfect time to enjoy Remy’s Hide & Squeak Scavenger Hunt! Remy Scavenger Hunt Maps Introduced in 2015, the game follows our favorite little chef in a massive scavenger hunt. And the best part? The adventure takes place all over the World Showcase, so Mom and Dad will have plenty of opportunity to enjoy all the dishes and drinks along the way! Want even more great tips and touring strategies? 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. 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! 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Index 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Index 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Special Events 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations 2016 Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Epcot Food and Wine Festival Fans Facebook Page 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Wine and Dine Half Marathon 2016 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Food and Wine Festival 101 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Menus and FOOD PHOTOS 2015 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). Join the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for upcoming details! 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 will be eligible for a $2 discount (per person, per event) for beverage and seminars and culinary demos taking place Mon-Thurs during the festival. Discounts are by phone only at 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Stay tuned to DisneyFoodBlog.com and the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for details. Now we’d love to hear from all of you! What are your best tips and strategies for enjoying the Epcot Food and Wine Festival with kids along for the ride? Leave a comment and let us know what you think! 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: Tips from the DFB Guide: Epcot Food and Wine Festival With Kids Tips from the DFB Guide: Epcot Food and Wine Festival on a Budget The DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival e-Book is HERE! View the full article

Singer-songwriter and fashion designer Gwen Stefani couldn’t make a stop on her latest tour to Central Florida without stopping by Magic Kingdom Park to say “hello” to her good pal Mickey! Gwen sported her classic sequined Minnie Mouse ears along with her #Truth hat supporting her third solo studio album, This Is What the Truth Feels Like. Thanks to photographer Chloe Rice for the awesome picture! View the full article

In honor of the upcoming 45th anniversary of Magic Kingdom Park on October 1st, I’ll be sharing a fun quiz each week leading up to the anniversary that are themed to some of the park’s iconic attractions that have been bringing joy and magic since opening day back in 1971. Have fun testing your knowledge about the Walt Disney World Railroad below! .quiz-container#wp-quiz-175451{ background-color:#f0f8fb; color:#565656; border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-175451 .quiz-section h1{ color:#8bb428; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-175451 .quiz-title{ color:#10628b; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-175451 .quiz-header-image{ text-align:right; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-175451 .quiz-section{ border-color:#ffffff; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-175451 .quiz-details, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-175451 .quiz-results, .quiz-container#wp-quiz-175451 .quiz-embed{ border-color:#dce4e7; } .quiz-container#wp-quiz-175451 .quiz-result{ background-color:#dce4e7; } Walt Disney World Railroad Around Magic Kingdom Park How long is the Walt Disney World Railroad at Magic Kingdom Park? 1 mile 1.5 miles 2 miles When were the trains at Walt Disney World Resort built? Between 1901-1912 Between 1905-1921 Between 1915-1928 Which of the following areas can you board the Walt Disney World Railroad? New Fantasyland Tomorrowland Adventureland Which is NOT the name of a train at Magic Kingdom Park? Lilly Belle Sharon Mae Roger E. Broggie Embed Quiz on Your Website Embed Code <div class="wp-quiz" data-quiz-id="175451" data-site-url="http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog"></div> <script type="text/javascript" src="http://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/wp-quizzes/js/embed.js"></script>Copy and paste above embed code where you would like the quiz to appear on your website. View the full article

All aboard! Start your tour of the 45th Anniversary of Magic Kingdom Park with a ride on the Walt Disney World Railroad. To inspire you here is a wallpaper I created based on the most magical of rail lines. Let the adventure begin! Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. Want to check out other designs? Visit our complete gallery of wallpapers here. View the full article

As Magic Kingdom Park’s 45th anniversary approaches this fall, this new weekly series will take a look at one of the park’s opening day attractions that can still be enjoyed today. This week, we’ll focus on the Walt Disney World Railroad. There’s just something about steam trains. Their history. Their bright colors. Their sights, sounds (and steam!) just signify you’re about to embark on an unforgettable adventure. The Walt Disney World Railroad debuted at Magic Kingdom Park on opening day to feature four steam trains with turn-of-the-century charm. Steam trains at a Disney Park are a tradition that started with Walt Disney himself, who considered a steam train a must-have in his plans for Disneyland park in California years earlier (and once even had a scaled-down version of a steam train called the Carolwood Pacific constructed in his own backyard). When planning a train system for Magic Kingdom Park, a fleet of four locomotives were purchased, each with their own interesting history. Manufactured by the Baldwin Automotive Works of Philadelphia between 1915-1928 for the United Railways of Yucatan, these trains spent years transporting jute and sugar through the Yucatan Peninsula. The locomotives were restored, repainted and put in place in time for the park’s opening on October 1, 1971. Since opening day, the Disney fleet has consisted of three locomotives named after members of the Disney family – the Walter E. Disney, the Roy Disney, and the Lilly Belle (after Lillian Disney). A fourth train is named after Imagineer Roger E. Broggie. Over the years, not much has changed with these moving pieces of history – especially the amount of joy they bring to our guests. View the full article

Disney PhotoPass Service has some exciting news to share! You can now enjoy unlimited digital downloads of all Disney PhotoPass photos in your account captured during a one-week visit to Disneyland Resort for one low price with our new product: Disney PhotoPass+ One Week! Disney PhotoPass+ One Week includes all your PhotoPass photos linked to your Disney account from a seven-consecutive-day period of your choosing, including select attraction and dining photos, Magic Shots and Animated Magic Shots. This new product can be purchased for $69 at Disneyland.com/PhotoPass before, during or after a visit to Disneyland Resort. Only visiting Disneyland Resort for the day? You can still purchase Disney PhotoPass+ One Day for $39 at Disneyland.com/PhotoPass or in the Disneyland mobile app. Our photographers are ready to capture your magical vacation moments, and with Disney PhotoPass+ One Week, you can make all of your Disneyland memories last a lifetime! Disney PhotoPass Service and Disney PhotoPass+ are subject to the Disney PhotoPass and Disney PhotoPass+ terms found in https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-terms-conditions/. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos in your account will expire pursuant to the expiration policy at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/photopass-expiration-policy/. Downloads are restricted to personal use only. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Separate Theme Park admission required. Message, data and roaming rates may apply for Disneyland App. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first. View the full article

There was a lot to celebrate in July – from patriotic cupcakes for Independence Day, to fabulous new eateries such as Art Smith’s Homecoming and Frontera Cocina opening at Disney Springs. Here’s a taste of some of our favorite new eats (and dining tips) from Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts for the month of July! Making dining reservations at a Disneyland Resort table-service restaurant is easier than ever with the Disneyland App! Guests with a Disneyland App account can now view availability, book or cancel dining reservations via a new section – My Plans – on the Dashboard. With this enhancement to the app, guests are no longer required to go to their internet browser to make, view or cancel dining reservations. If you’re looking for a quick bite to go with your Karl Strauss beer, at Bayside Brews in Disney California Adventure park, you’ll find new personal-sized pizzas. Choose from pepperoni or cheese. Speaking of pizza, PizzeRizzo will be opening this fall at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. At the new pizzeria, guests will be able to grab a pizza pie and a cold drink. The quick-service location is owned and operated by Rizzo the Rat, and will open this fall in Muppet’s Courtyard. New menu items will debut at Fairfax Fare in the Sunset Ranch area of Disney’s Hollywood Studios on August 2, including a delicious selection of baked potatoes including the Fairfax One Pound Baked Potato with tri-tip beef, brown gravy and white cheddar, and the Loaded Fairfax Potato with sour cream, cheddar and bacon. Oh boy! Be sure to try out the new Mickey Cheesecake at Sunshine Seasons next time you’re in the Land Pavilion at Epcot! With a chocolate sandwich cookie crust, this delicious treat is not to be missed. Several of your favorite Magic Kingdom Park restaurants are serving up delicious new eats. Be sure to check out: The Plaza Restaurant, with new bites such as Plaza Loaded Fries, Wedge Salad, Fried Green Tomato Sandwich, Honey Barbecue Beef Brisket Burger, all-you-care-to-enjoy milkshakes, caramel apple pie a la mode, a new brownie sundae and a signature four-layer chocolate cake, filled with dark chocolate ganache. Jungle Skipper Canteen’s new dishes like Shiriki Noodle Salad with rice noodles, edamame, mushroom, green mango and cucumber tossed with a sweet chili sauce; Whole Fried Fish served over Jasmine rice, grilled scallions and soy-ginger vinaigrette; and “A Lot at Steak” Salad—grilled steak, romaine lettuce, red peppers, tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, coriander-mint vinaigrette and garlic chips. Futuristic new eats have landed at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant – Try chicken tenders dipped in honey mustard parmesan garlic, buffalo or barbecue sauce; Pulled Pork Banh Mi Sandwich with Asian pulled pork and pickled vegetables and a spicy Sriacha aioli; or the spicy fried chicken breast sandwich topped with pepper jack, lettuce and tomato. If you’re in the mood for brunch (and why wouldn’t you be?) California Grill’s Brunch at the Top at Disney’s Contemporary Resort now features complimentary mimosas for adults and sparkling “faux-mosas” for children in addition to delicious self-serve selections such as house-made charcuterie and sushi, delicious entrees and fabulous desserts. Brunch is served every Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. If you’re looking for lunch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, give Taste of Tiffins a try. Choose two delicious entrees for $28. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog, where I’ll be telling you all about my lunchtime experience at Tiffins in an upcoming post! View the full article